Americans Sign Prospect Rodney Southam

KENNEWICK, WA – Tri-City Americans Governor/General Manager Bob Tory announced today that the club has signed 16-year-old prospect Rodney Southam to a standard WHL Players Contract.

Southam, a 5’11 167-pound center from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, currently sits second in scoring in the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League, compiling 5 goals and 10 points in his first 5 games as a member of the defending SMAAAHL champion Saskatoon Contacts.  Last season, Southam compiled 12 goals, 23 points and 93 penalty minutes in 43 games as a rookie for the Contacts before being listed by Tri-City this past July.  Southam attended the Americans’ rookie camp in August, scoring a goal in Team White’s 5-2 win over Blue, and eventually earned a spot in main camp.

“We are very happy that Rodney has committed to be a part of our program,” Tory said.  “He shows many of the on-ice characteristics that we value and have had success with as an organization.  His willingness to compete, combined with his high skill level, will only help Rodney to achieve his future goals.”

Southam will join the club this Wednesday, when the Americans play in his hometown against the Saskatoon Blades, and then will return to the Contacts to continue his second season with the club.

Fresh off a 2-0 start to their six-game East Division swing, the Americans have a day off today before hitting the ice again on Tuesday at Art Hauser Centre for a match-up with the division-leading Prince Albert Raiders.  Game time is 6:00 p.m. (PST).  Fans can catch all the action live, via WHL Live, at the Americans’ home away from home, Kimo’s Sports Restaurant, in Richland.  The game will also air live on NewsTalk 870 AM, starting with the Sterling Bank Warm-up Show at 5:45 p.m. (PST).