Odessa, TX – Following the acquisition of Peyton Frantti from the Topeka Roadrunners late last week, the Jackalopes continued making moves as Cooper Zech has returned to Odessa.
The defenseman flew back to Odessa late Wednesday night and is expected to play this upcoming weekend series against the Corpus Christi IceRays. In order to make room for Cooper on the active roster, Rune Kirby had been placed on the injured reserve after blocking a shot last weekend in Topeka.
The Ferris State University commit, from South Lyon, MI, was called up to the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL in early November, during an off week for the Jacks. During Cooper’s stint in Muskegon, he accumulated 4 assists in 25 games played, going from top defensive minutes to a 7th dressed defenseman.
“We’re excited he’s back,” explains Assistant Coach Mitch MacLeod. “He’s a very talented defenseman and he’s a great guy in the room. He’s going to help us win some games down the stretch.”
Cooper is ecstatic to be back in Odessa, hoping to finish off his second straight season with the Jackalopes. Before getting the call in November, Cooper led Odessa and all defensemen with 15 points (2-13-15). He should see top minutes and tons of power play time for the Jackalopes.
“It’s awesome being back,” states Cooper. “I started my junior career here last season, and now the goal is to help Odessa go farther than we ever have before”.
The Jackalopes kick off a 5-game homestead tonight against the Corpus Christi IceRays. Doors open at 6pm, with the puck dropping at 7 pm.
Host families are an important part of the junior hockey experience. A host family will house the Jackalopes players, as well as be their home away from home. If you would like to be a host family, please email kleisgang@jackalopes.org or call 432-552-7825 for more information.
— ODESSA JACKALOPES —
