For Immediate Release: January 16, 2016
CYCLONES ACQUIRE BLAZEK, MELE FROM NORFOLK
Ratchuk Heads to Admirals to Complete Deal
Allen, TX- The Cincinnati Cyclones have acquired defenseman Andrew Blazek and forward Tommy Mele from the Norfolk Admirals, in exchange for defenseman Mike Ratchuk.
Blazek returns for his second stint in Cincinnati, after skating in 16 games this season between the Admirals and Wichita Thunder. The Pittsburgh, PA native played in 18 games for the Cyclones during the 2013-14, and 2014-15 seasons, accounting for five assists and two minutes in penalties.
Blazek has also seen time with the South Carolina Stingrays and the Worchester Sharks of the American Hockey League (AHL). In 46 games as a professional, the 27-year-old has totaled a pair of goals and eight assists.
Prior to turning pro in 2014, Blazek spent five seasons at Robert Morris University, where he totaled 17 goals and 34 assists.
A native of Bronx, NY, Mele has accounted for 10 goals and 10 assists through 37 games with the Admirals this season, tying him for fourth on the team in scoring. He has also registered 97 minutes in penalties.
This is Mele’s sixth professional season, having seen time with the ECHL’s Alaska Aces and Tulsa Oilers, the American Hockey League’s (AHL) Oklahoma City Barons, and the Ft. Wayne Komets when they were a member of the Central Hockey League (CHL). In 251 career games as a professional, Mele has totaled 59 goals and 54 assists, along with 292 penalty minutes.
Prior to making his pro debut in 2011, the 29-year-old enjoyed a successful collegiate career at American International College (AIC), from 2007-2011. In 132 games at AIC, Mele scored 32 goals and added 23 assists for 55 total points.
Ratchuk departs the Cyclones having accounted for a goal and five assists through 24 games played.
The 2015-2016 season is underway! Your Cyclones are on the march towards another Kelly Cup Championship, and want you along for the ride! Be sure to check out one of our 2015-16 Ticket Packages, available NOW! Call 513.421.PUCK to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), Instagram, and our website, www.cycloneshockey.com
