Rio Rancho, NM - The Scorpions re-signed defenseman Vladimir Hartinger today at a press conference attended by many fans, corporate partners and local media members. Hartinger is the first player officially signed for the 2008-09 season.
Hartinger, 28, comes off a career year in which he set high marks in points (63), goals (20), assists (43), penalty minutes (116) and a +18 plus/minus rating. The Scorps captain led all Central Hockey League defenseman in points and assists and was second in goals. The Czech Republic native was also selected to the CHL All-Star team.
"I am very happy to be back with the Scorpions," said Hartinger. "The fans have always been great here and we continue to become a stronger team on the ice. I would like nothing more than to win a championship for the great fans of New Mexico."
Last season Hartinger became the organization's all time defensive scoring leader with 147 points. He currently sits seventh overall in points scored by a New Mexico player. His 254 games played in a Scorpions sweater is second most all-time. The Rio Rancho resident is only 43 games played behind Peter Ambroziak.
"Vladi is a leader for our team both on and off the ice; a player I am looking to build our team around," said head coach Randy Murphy. "He is one of the best defenseman in our league and outside of hockey is a great family man and community member."
