"I think it's an amazing opportunity to be part of both a brand new team and brand new city," DeSantis said. "Working with coach Ferras is very comforting because he is a good person and I know what kind of teams he puts together."

DeSantis, a 6'1'', 218-pound native of Brampton, Ontario, joins the Rush after spending last season with the Port Huron Icehawks of the IHL, where in 66 games played, he tallied 28 points and 64 penalty minutes DeSantis is a veteran defenseman who has played in over 900 games professionally over 21 seasons tallying 153 goals and 472 assists for a total of 625 points.

"It's great to have Mark aboard as a Player-Assistant because as a new organization, you want to surround yourself with quality people," says Coach Ferras. "Both Mark and Chris Lipsett are great people and leaders in the locker room."

DeSantis' resume also boasts 5 seasons of experience in the CHL suiting up for both the San Antonio Iguanas and the Amarillo Gorillas. While at Amarillo, DeSantis played 4 seasons under the guidance of Rapid City Head Coach Joe Ferras.

"Mark and I have a history as Mark was my Player-Assistant and Captain for 4 seasons in Amarillo and he helped lead what was a struggling franchise to 4 consecutive CHL playoffs and 2 division finals," added Coach Ferras. "Being an expansion franchise, the leadership Mark brings in the locker room and ice to a team comprised of all new faces will be invaluable."

During the 2000-2001 season, while playing for the New Mexico Scorpions of the WPHL, DeSantis earned the award for Outstanding Defenseman which is presented annually to the WPHL defenseman who has demonstrated the greatest all-around ability in the position. Following that season, the WPHL and CHL combined the top markets within both leagues under the CHL banner.

"As a Player-Assistant in Amarillo, I learned a lot from coach Ferras and I have been down that road. I know what the title brings and I am comfortable with it," said DeSantis. "It's great to come to a place where everyone is excited about the new organization and I look forward to the upcoming season."

DeSantis' experience includes stints in every major US league including the International Hockey League (IHL), East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), Central Hockey League (CHL), as well as the American Hockey League (AHL). DeSantis is a 3-time CHL All-Star and also garnered an All-Star nod while in the ECHL.

DeSantis currently resides in Rapid City with his fiancée Lesley.