Smith Gets Opportunity in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS, Nev. - The Las Vegas Wranglers announced today that they have agreed to terms with former Dartmouth standout Rob Smith for the 2011-12 season.
The 6'3, 190-pound left winger, who turns 24 today, first played with the Wranglers late in the 2010-11 season after signing an ATO (amateur try-out) with the team. He appeared in four regular-season games, where he earned two points (1g, 1a) and five penalty minutes, and one play-off game. Smith, a native of Brooks, Alberta, Canada, previously played five seasons (2006-11) at Dartmouth College, and notched 19 points (9g, 10a) and 49 penalty minutes across 94 games.
"In college, we just played on the weekends and had to be focused on exams at some point, but when you go pro, you get to really work on your game and focus on becoming a better hockey player," Smith said. "I'm excited to get an opportunity to play professional hockey."
Prior to college, Smith played two seasons (2004-06) with the AJHL's Calgary Canucks. He picked up 57 points (27g, 30a) and 94 penalty minutes over 109 games, and was named Most Sportsmanlike (2004-05), Most Popular (2005-06) and given the Perseverance and Dedication award (2005-06) during his time in the league.
"Robbie is a north and south winger who plays the game hard and will be a presence on the ice," General Manager and Head Coach Ryan Mougenel said. "Smitty has worked hard this off season and realizes the work ethic needed to succeed at this level. I look forward to Robbie growing as a player here in Vegas."
