Rapid City Activates VanderVeeken and Signs Harvey


(Rapid City, SD) – On Thursday, the Rapid City Rush announced a number of roster moves that included the activation of defenseman Jamie VanderVeeken and the signing of forward Kevin Harvey.  Both will be in the lineup in time for this weekend’s games against the Allen Americans.

The 6’2”, 208-pound VanderVeeken returns after having a breakout season for the Rush last season in which he led Rapid City defenseman in goals for the second straight season.

“We’re looking at Jamie to build off of his strong play from last season,” said Ferras.  “We want him to pay with the confidence that he had last year allowing him to be one of the top d-men in league.  He is a big body on back end, who skates very well, and possesses a big, heavy shot from the point.  With all of these tools, we expect Jamie to be a big part of our defensive corps.  With Jamie being a 4th year pro, we expect him to lead and bring top game on nightly basis.”

Last year, VanderVeeken set career highs in assists (25), points (37), and penalty minutes (92).  With a goal against the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees on February 19th, VanderVeeken became first Rush defenseman to reach double-digit goals in a season.  In all, the Wallaceburg, Ontario native led all Rush defenseman in goals (12), assists (25), points (37), powerplay goals (8), powerplay assists (13), powerplay points (21), and game-winning goals (2).

VanderVeeken had a strong rookie campaign while with the Kalamazoo Wings of the former International Hockey League (IHL).  During that 2007-08 season, he racked up 14 goals and 19 assists for 33 points and 82 penalty minutes.  His efforts earned him “Defenseman of the Year” honors by the Wings.

Harvey, 26, joins the Rush after playing a pair of seasons with the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League (AHL).  The 6’2” 200-pound winger was selected by the Calgary Flames in the 9th round, 270th overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

“We’re very excited to get Kevin into the lineup,” said Rush head coach Joe Ferras.  “He’s coming off of two successful seasons at the AHL level, and we’re looking for him to bring both professionalism and energy to this hockey club.  He’s a player that competes hard, sacrifices the body and is willing to go into the tough areas.  Kevin brings a lot of grit and determination and will be vital on the forecheck.  He is the type of player that will make things happen on the ice and will stick up for his teammates, making him an instant leader in locker room.”

In 117 total games with the Crunch from 2008-2010, Harvey collected 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 total points while racking up 479 penalty minutes.  He also suited up in 23 games for the Reading Royals of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) in 2008-09, scoring 10 points and amassing 122 penalty minutes.

A native of Hamilton, Ontario, Harvey turned pro in 2006 with the CHL’s New Mexico Scorpions.  In two seasons with New Mexico, Harvey appeared in 109 games, totaling 29 points and 482 penalty minutes.

The Rush also placed defenseman Gio Flamminio and Corey Laurysen along with forward Erik Felde on the 10-day injured reserve.



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