RAPID CITY, S. D. — The Rapid City Rush have made strong additions both offensively and defensively with the signing of Matt & Mike Ruberto. The Ruberto brothers are making the jump from college hockey to the professional level after having played together at both the Manhattenville Valiants of the Eastern College Athletic Conference West, and with Canisius College of the Atlantic Hockey Association. Mike, a forward, is not only an offensive threat, but loves to play a physical game also. During his NCAA career, Mike posted some impressive numbers. Playing in 91 NCAA games, Mike tallied 92 points (41, 51). Matt, a 6’ 200lb defenseman, also posted solid numbers in the college ranks. During his college career, Matt played 86 games, and registered 37 points and 116 pim. Prior to their both playing together in the college ranks, the twins also played together for two seasons with the Oakville Blades in the Ontario Provincial Hockey Junior League (OPJHL), and then the brothers played for a season with the Cleveland Barons of the NAHL. While in Oakville, Mike posted incredible numbers. During his 92 games, Mike registered a total of 169 points (72, 97), and brother Matt also had a productive career. Also playing in 92 games at Oakville, Matt racked up 64 points (10, 54) and had 277 penalty minutes. After their two seasons in Oakville, the twins played for a season with the Barons. Again, the twins posted impressive numbers, Mike registering 72 points (39, 33) in 56 games as a Baron, and Matt posted 31 points and 174 pim in his 54 games with the Barons. Both will be a physical presence on the ice, as they are both 6’ and 200lbs plus. With their physical playing style, their presence on the roster will benefit the expansion team greatly. Mike brings his physical offensive style, and Matt gives the Rush a solid, strong blue liner. The Rush now have 18 on the roster as they prepare for their first training camp which will open October 6th. The Rush will take to the ice as a team for the first time on October 10th, when they visit the Rocky Mountain Rage at the Broomfield Events Center. They will play their first regular season game on the 17th of October against the Colorado Eagles. The Rush play their first 14 games on the road.
Contact the author at buck.pettry@prohockeynews.com
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