Ice Hockey: Devils keen to bring Prpich back

Apr 11 2008 by Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo

CANADIAN winger Mike Prpich is again a top target for Cardiff Devils.

The former New Mexico Scorpions forward made an impact when he joined the Devils last season, but then had to return home after suffering a serious knee injury which required surgery.

“Mike is a player we will be talking to about next season,” said Devils’ coach Gerad Adams.

“He fitted in well and it was a shame he suffered an injury which ended his season.

“Mike is able to combine scoring punch with an aggressive style of play. He can skate, score and likes to get involved.”

Prpich, 25, is a University of North Dakota graduate, who said before leaving he would love to return and show Devils fans what he can contribute.

He scored 14 goals in 16 play-off matches for Scorpions and the fiery forward could well be back in South Wales next season.

Adams has now, as expected, signed his new contract for the 2008-9 Elite League ice hockey season and he has already opened talks with captain Brad Voth and exciting centreman Sylvain Deschatelets about next season.

The French Canadian flew back to North America today, but had a chat with Adams before leaving.