(Team Press Release) The Oklahoma City Blazers have signed defenseman Gio Flamminio and forward Greg McCauley, head coach Doug Sauter announced Wednesday. Flamminio, a 6-0, 185-pounder from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, skated in 62 games for the Blazers last season, finishing with 30 points (9-21-30), 70 penalty minutes and a +/- rating of +15. His +/- rating was second on the club to his defensive partner, Tyler Fleck’s +18. Flamminio was one of three Blazers to represent the Northern Conference at the 2006 CHL All Star Game. He was also one of three first-year players on the Northern Conference squad.

The 5-9, 180-pound McCauley played last with the Ryerson Rams, amassing seven points (1-6-7) and serving 66 penalty minutes in 16 games played. Prior to his stint with the Rams, he saw action in the Ontario Hockey League with the Mississauga Ice Dogs, Sudbury Wolves and Barrie Colts.

“Both players will have different roles with this team,” said Sauter. “Gio was solid in his first season as a Blazer. He may have a chance to attend an AHL camp prior to the start of our season. We wish him the best of luck in that camp, but if things don’t work out, we expect him to have another All-Star-like season in Oklahoma City. Aaron Downey recommended Greg to us a player who could contribute to our club. He is focused, working very hard to resume his hockey career. We are looking forward to Greg being part of our team. He is a talented player that has the ability play at our level or higher. Hopefully this will be an opportunity to revamp his
career.”

The addition of Flamminio and McCauley bring the number of players signed by the Blazers for the 06-07 season to 21. These two join veterans Tyler Fleck, Marty Standish, Jared Dumba and Peter Robertson as well as returnees Graham Dearle, Garrett Prosofsky, Mike Beausoleil and Sean Connors. Training camp for the Blazers historic 15th season begins October 9 at the Blazers Ice Centre at 10 a.m.

2006-2007 CHL Team Player Signings