LAS VEGAS – The Las Vegas Wranglers announced today that forward Locke Jillson and defenseman Eric Springer have signed with the team for the upcoming season.
Jillson, 24, comes to the Wranglers after four years (2008-12) at Cornell University. The 5’9’’, 154-pound forward tallied 45 points (20 goals, 25 assists) in 124 games for the Big Red. A native of Dallas, Jillson played for the United States Hockey League in 2007-08, picking up 18 points (5 goals, 13 assists) with the Des Moines Buccaneers and two assists with the Indiana Ice.
“Locke is a highly skilled forward that comes from a great program at Cornell,” said Wranglers Head Coach and General Manager Ryan Mougenel. He’s a young pro who will provide offense for us, and I’m excited to have him.”
“[Las Vegas] seems like a great situation all around, and I really couldn’t beat it,” said Jillson. “I’m excited to meet new teammates and pick their brains and become a better player everyday from that.”
Springer, 23, attended the University of Wisconsin for the past four years (2008-12). Hailing from Wrightstown, Wisc., the blueliner recorded 10 points (2 goals, 8 assists) in 84 games for the Badgers. The 5’9’’, 194-pound defenseman also spent one season (2007-08) with the USHL’s Sioux Falls Stampede, collecting 31 points (8 goals, 21 assists) in 60 games.
“Springer comes highly recommended, and also comes from another great college program,” said Mougenel. “He’s a defenseman that competes extremely hard and his pedigree will benefit our lineup.”
“I want to do well on the ice and prove myself, and hopefully make some things happen this year,” said Springer. “It sounds like Vegas has a good atmosphere with the fans, and I just want to get back on the ice and play the game.”
The Wranglers will face the Stockton Thunder in the team’s 2012-13 home opener on Friday, Oct. 19, at 7:05 p.m. A preseason game against the Ontario Reign takes place on Thursday, Oct. 4, at 7:05 p.m., and tickets are available by calling the Wranglers front office at (702) 471-PUCK.
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