BATTOCHIO BACKS UP FOR SERIES FINALE

(RAPID CITY, SD) – The Rapid City Rush, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes, have officially turned on the “Bat Signal”. Rush Goaltending Coach, and legendary back-stopper Danny Battochio will serve as the Emergency Back Up Goaltender (EBUG) for tonight’s series finale against the Cincinnati Cyclones. The addition serves as the final Black Hills Chiropractic Roster Adjustment of the week.

Following the game, Battochio will be joined by Brennan Saulnier and Cedric Montminy at the Info Table in Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Ice Arena for a postgame autograph session.

With Tyler Parks currently called up to the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners, Battochio will serve as the EBUG to Alex Sakellaropoulos, who stopped 32 of 34 shots last night in the Rush’s 5-2 win over Cincinnati. This is the fourth time since retiring after the 2015-16 ECHL season that “The Batman” will serve in a back up capacity.

The most recent back up appearance for Battochio came at the conclusion of the 2017-18 ECHL season. Just 24 hours after seeing his #30 immortalized in the rafters of Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Ice Arena, Battochio relieved Christian Frey of goaltending responsibilities after he allowed 4 goals on 12 shots in 21:55 of hockey. He played the remainder of the game, stopping all but one of 26 shots on net in 37:04 of relief, suffering the loss in a 5-4 defeat.

A native of Lively, Ontario, Battochio spent 7 of his 8 professional seasons in Rapid City. He surged onto the scene as a first-year professional in the 2009-10 CHL season, compiling a 28-5-4 record in 42 games, a rookie record that remains unmatched in Rush history. For his efforts, Battochio was named a 2010 CHL All-Star, won 2010 CHL Rookie of the Year, and led the team to the 2010 CHL Championship with a 12-4 postseason. With the Rush, Battochio amassed a lifetime record of 131-81-21 with a 2.61 GAA, .912 SV%, and 12 shutouts in 253 games. His games played, wins, and shutouts all still serve as franchise records, among countless others he holds to his credit. On March 30, 2018, Battochio became the second player in team history to have his number retired, with his #30 joining Scott Wray’s #17.

The Rush conclude their series against the Cyclones tonight, with puck drop slated for 7:05 p.m. MDT at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Ice Arena. The Rush will host “Nickelodeon Night”, presented by Black Hills Energy, featuring specialty PAW Patrol themed jerseys. Additionally, the team will celebrate the birthday of our lovable mascot, Nugget, and the first 1,000 fans will have the chance to take home a commemorative Nugget bobble head giveaway, presented by Black Hills Energy.

Tickets for all remaining Rush games are on sale now! Visit www.rapidcityrush.com to purchase yours today!

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