Bye-Bye
Beacons
2004 UHL Rookie of the Year Benoit Genesse joins CHL's Austin Ice
Bats.
07.16.04 - Benoit Genesse
is always up for a good challenge. The incredibly quick forward established
himself as one of the best players in the UHL last season as a rookie for
the Port Huron Beacons.
Now he is moving on
to the Central Hockey League, recently signing with the Austin Ice Bats
for the upcoming 2004-05 hockey season.
The IceBats are very
pleased to have the 22-year-old native of La Sarre, Quebec aboard.
"Ben is a dynamic
all-around player who would be prized on any team at this level,"
said Jeff Greenlaw, Ice Bats Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations.
"He brings quickness and speed to our lineup, and I've had several
coaches attest to his outstanding work ethic and desire."
Last season, Genesse
led all UHL rookies with his 23 goals and 41 assists in 75 games, earning
himself the league's Rookie of the Year award.
"Of his 23 goals
last year, 21 were scored even-strength," Greenlaw continued. "That
tells me that with more power play time, he's capable of putting up
even better numbers. He has a tremendous upside. He can play all three forward
positions. And we'll use him in all situations, on the power play,
penalty kill, wherever.
"I think he's
looking forward to showcasing all his skills against some of the best young
players at this level. I think he'll really enjoy playing for a great
organization in a growing league, with a mission and history of developing
players for the future."
Genesse made a name
for himself while netting nearly 25 goals and 64 points per season during
his four years of play in the Quebec Major Junior League.
