Richards, 32, is an annual CHL all-star averaging just under 80 points per season in his previous eight years in the league. The Cornwall, Ontario native has played each of the last three seasons with the Youngstown SteelHounds totaling 278 points (85-193=278) in 190 games. Only Tulsa's Jeff Christian has scored more points in the CHL over the past three seasons, 306 points. Richards finished just outside the top 10 in scoring last season with 80 points (24-56=80). His most productive professional campaign came during the 2006-07 season when he eclipsed the100 point mark (39 goals, 67 assists) for the first time in his career and was named to the All-CHL Team and was a finalist for the CHL's Most Valuable Player Award (won by SteelHound's teammate Christian).

"I am very excited to have inked Chris (Richards)," said Dunn. "I had the opportunity to coach Richie in New Mexico and I have a lot of respect for the way he goes about his business and the way he competes on the ice. He will be a great compliment and leader for this championship caliber team we are putting together in Corpus Christi."

Richards name is spread throughout the CHL record book for individual season accomplishment and as an all-time career leader. The 5-10, 185-pound center ranks seventh in points (637), 14th in goals scored (205), seventh in assists (432) and 14th in total games played (512).

The former Ohio State Buckeye star has played for Macon, Indianapolis, New Mexico, Austin and Youngstown in his CHL career. In college, Richards scored 133 points (43-90=133) in 151 career games for the 'scarlet and grey'.

"I am thrilled to head back to the state of Texas with the IceRays," said Richards. "I enjoyed all the trips to Corpus Christi and the rivalry we built when I was with the Ice Bats. I have great respect for Pat (Dunn), coach (Sylvain Cloutier) and all the great players being assembled for the IceRays."