Forward Played Seven Seasons in Odessa

(Odessa, TX) – The Odessa Jackalopes announced this week that the organization will honor former Jackalopes forward, Don Margettie, prior to Friday night’s Central Hockey League home game against the Arizona Sundogs at the Ector County Coliseum.  The Odessa Fire Department will also be recognized during the night.

Margettie, an original Jackalope, was an immediate fan favorite in the team’s inaugural season in 1997-98.  Along with his 60 points in 64 games, Margettie produced 173 penalty minutes and became known as one of the feistiest players in team history.  He went on to play in 404 games over seven seasons in a Jackalopes uniform registering 101 goals, 170 assists and 1,144 penalty minutes.

Margettie, who now resides in Odessa and is a member of the Fire Department, recently became one of the leaders of the Jackalopes youth hockey program.

“Don played with a lot of spirit and enthusiasm,” said Jackalopes GM Joe Clark, who originally signed Margettie when he was the team’s first head coach in 1997.  “It’s only fitting that he goes into the Jackalopes’ Hall of Fame.  Anyone who has followed the team over the years knows Don Margettie is a big part of the Permian Basin community, and even today is making a contribution at the youth hockey level.”

Margettie will join former Jackalopes - Rick Girhiny, John Bossio and Scott Hillman in the team’s Hall of Fame.

Friday’s game will kick off a three-game weekend for the Jackalopes, who will host Arizona on Friday and Saturday then Laredo on Sunday.  Saturday’s 7:05 PM contest will also feature a Kory Karlander youth jersey giveaway to the first 1,000 fans.  The team will also wear Ronald McDonald House Charities specialty jerseys against Arizona, with a special post-game jersey auction following Saturday’s game.  Sunday’s 4:05 PM contest will be sponsored by Wendy’s.

The Odessa Jackalopes are the Central Hockey League affiliate for the NHL’s New York Islanders and the AHL’s Bridgeport Sound Tigers.  The team is in the middle of their 13th season in the Permian Basin.  Season tickets, mini-plans, and single game tickets are available by calling (432) 552-PUCK.

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