LAREDO, Texas - Laredo Bucks of the Central Hockey League have announced the signing of Left-Wing Alex Penner for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

Penner, a native of Simcoe, Ontario comes to the Bucks after splitting the 2006-07 season playing with the Restigouche Junior A Tigers, in the MJAHL, and Niagara Falls of the Golden Horseshoe league.

Combined last season Penner played in 36 games, scoring 15 goals, with 22 assists, for 37 points, including seven power-play goals. Penner also piled up 134 penalty minutes for the season, gaining a reputation as a big hitter.

"Alex is a big, strong, tough forward", said Bucks head coach/GM Terry Ruskowski, "he has outstanding ability, along with some good credentials, we are happy to see him here".

Penner played his first two junior seasons in the OHL, suiting up for the Guelph Storm in 2004-05, and the Sault Saint Marie Greyhounds in 2005-06. During those two campaigns Penner played in 62 games, netting one goal, with three assists, for four points. During that time Penner racked up 134 penalty minutes.

"Alex hits hard, he will come in here and play the role of protector", Ruskowski said, "He will be the guy who makes the big hits and protects his teammates."

The Bucks, who open training camp October 8th, are preparing for their sixth CHL season. Laredo will start the season on the road October 19th, before playing their home opener on October 26th. The full 2007-08 CHL schedule is expected to be released by Friday August 10th .