(Team Press Release) The Corpus Christi Rayz signed their 28th and final player of the off-season late last week, announcing the signing of Japanese forward, Kazuma Takahashi. Takahashi is in camp with the Rayz, hoping to crack Coach Ken McRae’s season opening roster. Takahashi, 28, has played five years of professional hockey in Japan.

Originally from Hachinoe City, Japan, Takahashi played two seasons in the JIHL for Seibu and then moved to the ASIA League. In 2003-2004, Takahashi played briefly for Kokudo before finding a home with the Ice Bucks. While on the Ice Bucks, Takahashi notched 47 points (23 goals, 24 assists) in 74 total games. After establishing himself as a star in the Japanese leagues, the 5’9”, 180 lbs. forward is ready to make a splash in North America. McRae said that global growth of the sport has broadened the talent pool of hockey players, and led to an influx of players from non traditional markets.

2006-2007 CHL Training Camp Rosters

“You can see throughout the world, how the game has expanded and players are coming from everywhere,” he said. “Kazuma is an example of that, and we’re excited to give him the opportunity to further his career thousands of miles away from home.” McRae added, “Kazuma has had success in Japan and it will be interesting to see if he can translate that into the North American style of play.”

Should Takahasi make the Rayz regular season roster he’d be just the second Japanese player to player in the Central Hockey League. In 2003-2004, Tomonar Takahashi (no relation) played 25 games for the Tulsa Oilers. According to Rayz scouts, Takahashi is said to possess excellent speed, great tenacity and a presence in front of the net. Prior to turning pro, Takahashi played four seasons at Waseda University, leading them to a championship in his sophomore season, and captaining the squad as a senior.

Two other Japanese players are in CHL camps, with the duo of Takaioshi Kawamoto and Hironori Kobayashi in Austin with Coach Bill McDonald and the Ice Bats.