For Immediate Release: August 13, 2015

CYCLONES WELCOME IN ROOKIE DUAL THREAT

Schmidt Heads to Cincinnati after Successful Collegiate Career 

CINCINNATI, OH- The Cincinnati Cyclones have signed forward/defenseman Ben Schmidt for the upcoming 2015-2016 season. The Campbell River, BC, native spent the last five seasons at the University of British Columbia.

“Ben is a great character guy who is ready to make the transition to the pro ranks,” said Cyclones Head Coach Matt MacDonald. “He is a big kid who will compete every night and push the pace of the game with his skating abilities. He is a mature guy who prides himself on being able to fit different roles for our team next season.”

A leader both on and off the ice for the Thunderbirds, the 26-year-old, three-year captain appeared in 139 games during his collegiate career, accounting for 14 goals and 46 assists for 60 total points. The 6’2”, 195-pounder eclipsed double-digit points in three of his five seasons, establishing career-highs in goals during his first season, and assists during his fourth.

Prior to his is time at the University of British Columbia, Schmidt enjoyed a solid junior hockey career with the Nanaimo Clippers and Powell River Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), totaling 56 points (26g, 30a) in 173 games.

The countdown to the 2015-16 First Face-Off is underway! The Cyclones will return to U.S. Bank Arena on Saturday, October 17 when they host the Toledo Walleye at 7:30pm. Between now and then, be on the lookout for several offseason events like Meijer Concrete Clones! 2015-16 Season Ticket Packages are available NOW! Call 513.421.PUCK to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the offseason on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram!