The RoadRunners Return: The Vets (part 3)
The first puck is mere days away and the rafters of Landon Arena are being girded for the shaking they’ll receive all season long as your Topeka RoadRunners crash back on the Road to the Robbie Cup. As we’ve taken a look at the vets returning to Topeka for another season of outstanding hockey, here are the final four fan favorites to look out for in 2013-2014.
#17 Tyler Poulsen – Forward
Among the more dynamic players returning to Topeka, Poulsen got national recognition on ESPN’s Top 10 Plays of the Week when his fall-down-spin-around-360-hop-and-score against the Tornado dazzled players and fans alike. The 20 year-old out of Arvada, CO, who tallied 32 pts. in 53 games, is being counted on to make a big impact for the RoadRunners this season. Poulsen’s a very gifted player that brings a well rounded game to this team’s lineup. He plays with energy in all three zones. Poulsen’s abilities place him among the best in the league.
#25 Jerad Tafoya – Forward
Another third-year vet coming into his own this season, Tafoya was a midseason addition last year by way of Minot and Wenatchee who contributed 12 pts. in 35 games. Tafoya displayed the kind of hard-nosed, self-sacrificing attitude that Coach Langer loves when he laid out and took a puck to the face while defending the goal. The injury had him down but not out as he would return to the ice, finishing the season in strong fashion. Tafoya is one of the smartest hockey players on the ice night in and night out. He brings the ability to play in every situation.
#18 James Ring – Forward
Before being sidelined with a shoulder injury, James Ring helped anchor one of Topeka’s most productive lines in 2012-2013 (15 pts. in 36 games). Now healthy and hungry to finish out his NAHL career with a bang, the 6’1” 170 lb. Ring is another team leader to watch. Ring is a very versatile player. Very good defensively and makes things happen with the puck. James has the ability to be one of the top centers in the NAHL.
#3 David Powlowski – Forward
David Powlowski joined the RoadRunners via a mid-season trade with the Wenatchee Wild. He amassed 15 pts in 19 games prior to his arrival and is a hard working player that creates opportunity through dedication and effort. Powlowski has the ability to add solid depth to this year’s roster.
Season tickets for the 2013-2014 season are on sale now. Fans who purchase RoadRunners season tickets will also be able to attend every home game for the new NA3HL franchise for no extra charge. During the season, the RoadRunners and Sharp Honda will be giving away $5,000 to one lucky fan every time attendance reaches 5,000 fans. For more information on tickets, call 785-286-PUCK or visit www.topekaroadrunners.com.