Enforcers Add Dmytro Babenko
Elmira, NY - The Elmira Enforcers are pleased to announce the signing of Dmytro Babenko.
Babenko, 23, is a native of Kharkov, Ukraine. He spent the past two seasons in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) with the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, and earned a call up last season to the Norfolk Admirals of the ECHL. He finished his time in Roanoke with 29 points (13 goals and 16 assists) and 59 penalty minutes.
When asked about the signing, Clarke was quick to pipe in: “I am very excited to have an SPHL veteran to add to our lineup. He comes with a lot of upside and plays a physical style of hockey which is a must in this league.”
Prior to his professional career, Babenko spent two years in the Western States Hockey League (WSHL) with the Casper Coyotes. In 91 games he tallied 80 points (36 goals and 44 assists), while adding 132 penalty minutes. He competed in the playoffs both years, with a total of 6 points (1 goal and 5 assists) in 10 games.
Babenko commented, “Roanoke was a fun place to begin my professional career. I am a power forward and I like to play a physical game. I spoke to Coach Clarke and he told me about what a great community Elmira is, and I really want to work with him. He sounds like a great coach in a great community and I am excited to play there.”
The Elmira Enforcers kickoff their first season on the road on Friday, October 16th when they take on the Danville Dashers. Their Home Opener is Friday, November 16th at First Arena when they welcome the Carolina Thunderbirds. Season ticket packages and sponsorship packages for Elmira's first season of FHL hockey are available now by contacting First Arena directly at (607) 734-7825.