Twins are latest addition to Rush’s roster

Matt and Mike Ruberto expected to help the team offensively, on blueline

By Journal staff | Wednesday, September 24, 2008

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The latest additions to the Rapid City Rush’s roster could spell double trouble for the rest of the Central Hockey League.

Twins Matt and Mike Ruberto are expected to help strengthen the Rush lineup both in the offensive end and on the blueline.

The brothers join the Rush after playing four years of NCAA college hockey for the Manhattanville Valiants of the Eastern College Athletic Conference - West, as well as Canisius of the Atlantic Hockey Association.

Prior to entering the college ranks, the brothers played one season for the Cleveland Barons of the North American Hockey League and before that, two seasons for the Oakville Blades of the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League.

“Both Matt and Mike are good-sized kids that have been working hard all summer to get ready to make the jump from college hockey to the pros,” said Rush head coach Joe Ferras.

“Although they enjoyed success during their college days at Manhattanville and Canisius respectively, I feel the twins are the type of players that will turn out to be better pros.  The way they compete, the pro game is much more suited to their style.”

The twins, of Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada, are both 6-foot and 200-pounds. The pair brings size as well as skill to two different areas for the Rush.

 “We played college not knowing what to do.  Rapid City seemed to be a perfect fit.  It’s a great setup for everyone,” said Mike. “I hear that we’re going to draw well considering how fast season tickets have been going. Coming from college, we didn’t have the numbers at our games, so I look forward to playing in front of large crowds at a brand new arena.”

Mike proved his ability to be an offensive threat during his time in Oakville. In 92 games over two seasons with the Oakville Blades, Mike posted 169 points, 72 goals and 97 assists.

He continued the trend in Cleveland, scoring 39 goals and 33 assists for 72 points to go along with 66 penalty minutes in 56 games.  Mike also posted solid numbers in college, 92 points (41 goals, 51 assists) in 91 games.

“Mike is a forward that has put up numbers and has been a finisher at every level he has played,” Ferras said.  “He’s not afraid to go into the tough areas, and this bodes well for him as he enters the professional ranks.”

Matt showed he could also put up numbers. In 92 games over two seasons with the Oakville Blades, he posted 64 points, 10 goals, 54 assists.  During his 2003-2004 season with the Cleveland Barons, Matt showed his physical side as he accumulated 174 penalty minutes and 31 points in 54 games.  During his college career, Matt tallied 37 points and 116 penalty minutes in 86 games played.

“It’s exciting to be involved and I think this is great for the city. Teams seem to thrive in small cities and from what I’ve heard, everything is going smoothly,” said Matt.

“Matt plays with an edge, is able to make the first pass and sees the ice very well,” said Ferras. “With the increase in speed and physicality at the pro level, this will enable Matt to make the adjustment to the pro game that much quicker.”

Both are equally excited about upcoming season and their professional debut.

“Being an expansion team, it’s fun to be a part of a new organization,” said Matt. “I’m excited to play my first year of professional hockey.  It’s always been a dream of mine to play pro hockey and this is a great stepping stone for me.”

“I look forward to both Matt and Mike coming into Rapid City to battle for the final roster,” said coach Ferras.