BOSSIER CITY, La. – Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs owner Tommy Scott has hit another one into the back of the net with the hiring of former player Jason “Soupy” Campbell as the clubs’ new vice-president and general manager. He will replace Ray Delia, who resigned in May.
Campbell, who spent his entire pro career as a Mudbug, retired after the 2007-08 season. He and his family opted to remain in the area to run his own business and remain close to hockey.
“I’m extremely excited to once again be a part of the Mudbugs organization, the Bossier-Shreveport community and the CHL,” Campbell said. “I’ve been looking to get back involved in hockey ever since I stopped playing, and this will be a great opportunity to do that with the team and area that I know and love.”
Over seven seasons, the formidable center from Orangeville, Ontario tallied 296 points (129 G, 167 A) and 249 penalty minutes in 412 regular season games. In post-season play, Campbell notched 56 points (25 G, 31 A) and 46 PIM. He was a member of two WPHL Championship teams (2000, 2001) and was named the league’s Playoff MVP after the 2000-01 season.
“I’m thrilled about bringing ‘Soupy’ on board to lead our office staff,” owner Tommy Scott said. “He helped this franchise succeed on the ice for all those years, and now he’s going to help us continue to improve our business operations as well. Not only is he someone who everyone knows and loves, but most importantly, he’s a Mudbug through and through. I look forward to working with him on a daily basis.”
Head Coach Scott Muscutt, who coached Campbell throughout his career, believes the qualities “Soupy” brought to the ice will translate to his work as a GM.
“The first step to being successful is to surround yourself with quality people, and ‘Soupy’ immediately fits the bill,” Muscutt said. “As a player, you could always rely on him because of a great attitude and work ethic… Jason Campbell loves this game, he loves this team and he loves this town. What more could you ask for?”
Fan reaction about the return of the popular former Mudbug has been extremely positive, with most comments along the lines of those by longtime supporter Sharon Smith.
“Soupy will bring a lot to the organization,” Smith said “The best decision made in a long time!”
Others, like Ginger Hefner, put their reaction in simpler terms:
“Awesome! Geaux Bugs!”
Campbell has already begun his work in the Mudbugs front office along with a number of other new faces this summer including Jordan Wilson as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Kimberly Jacks as Marketing & Sponsorship Activation Coordinator, and Chris Catanzaro as Director of Ticket Operations.
As for the focus of his new position, Campbell’s enthusiasm knows no bounds.
“I want to help this community get even more excited about Mudbugs hockey while we build on our already loyal fan base and strong business relationships. The front office staff has been raising the bar to increase our service level with fans and partners. We’re going to continue our tradition of being the hardest working team, both on and off the ice.”
Contact the author at robert.keith@prohockeynews.com
Photo Credit: Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs
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