TOPEKA, KS, JUNE 18, 2009: The Topeka RoadRunners today announced the formation of the RoadRunners Alumni Association, to be headed by former captain John Stoddard.
The Topeka RoadRunners hockey team is a franchise that has long prided itself on being a family. As players move on in their lives after junior hockey, whether it be to college, pro, or otherwise, they take with them a fraternal bond that is powerful and strong, forged over countless hours spent together on and off the ice. The formation of the Alumni Association gives players a means by which to stay in touch, and to use their status to benefit players who follow in their strides. The RoadRunners have a rich tradition of success on the ice, and a strong track record of helping players achieve their dreams.
John Stoddard, who captained the club their final year in Santa Fe as well as their inaugural season in Topeka has agreed to serve as President of the Alumni Association. “John is the perfect guy for the job”, said head coach Scott Langer. “He’s a true leader and he exemplifies everything that a RoadRunner hockey player should be.” In Stoddard’s career with the ‘Runners, he played in 168 games. The La Mesa, CA native was excited at the prospect of heading the Alumni Association. “There’s a huge part of me that will always be a RoadRunner”, said Stoddard. “This is a great way to continue to build and grow together, just like a regular family.”
The Alumni Association is open to anyone who ever skated in a game for the RoadRunners. Group activities and potential appearances are something that team owner Don Stone would like to see. “It’s about keeping traditions alive, and building new ones”, Stone remarked. “I’m thrilled to see this idea coming together because I believe it’s good for the players who’ve moved on, good for the new players coming in to get a feel for what we are all about and definitely good for the fans who grow so attached to these young men. With John Stoddard heading this thing up, I expect good things.”
The RoadRunners Alumni Association will have a website up soon. In the meantime, interested parties can e-mail Stoddard at: rr_alumni@hotmail.com .