Snakes Set Opening Night Roster

Columbus, GA - The Columbus Cottonmouths have announced their 18-man opening night roster for the 2009-10 season. The Snakes return 11 players from last year’s team and welcome seven newcomers.

At forward, the Snakes are anchored by their three veterans Tim Green, Orrin Hergott and captain Craig Stahl. Also returning on offense for the Snakes are enforcer Dan Leslie and fan favorite Ryan McCarthy. Rookies Nicolas Boucher, Jesse Cole, Levi Lind, Jeff Martens and Joey Martini have signed with the Snakes for their first professional season.

The majority of the Snakes’ defensive unit returns for the upcoming season. Will Barlow, Andrew Dwyer, Tyler Johnson, Kyle Lundale and Jason Slusher have resigned with the Snakes, while Tim Hockley joins the Snakes after three seasons with the rival Huntsville Havoc.

In net for the Snakes, Ian Vigier returns for his third season. In two seasons, Vigier has compiled a 32-21-9 regular season record. Last season, Vigier finished fourth among all SPHL goaltenders and recorded an 11-1-3 record over the final 15 regular season games. Joining Vigier in net will be rookie Steve Bounds. Bounds come to Columbus after an impressive career with the College of St. Scholastica. Bounds finished last season with a 1.85 Goals Against Average and .937 Save Percentage.

“I’m really happy with the roster we’ve assembled,” Head coach Jerome Bechard said. “The biggest move is with the goaltenders.  I know what Ian Vigier can do, and what Chad Rycroft brings to the table. The unanswered question is Steve Bounds. He’ll get an opportunity on Saturday night, and this should answer some questions regarding the goalie situation.”

The Snakes open the 2009-10 regular season at home this Friday, Oct. 23 against the Fayetteville FireAntz.