Matt Degel has been named the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders’ new equipment manager, the RoughRiders announced today.

Degel, a native of Reading, Massachusetts, has ample experience in equipment management, having worked at ice rinks in his home state for six years.

“I’m happy to become a part of RoughRider hockey and have the chance to experience everything that will come with it,” said Degel. “Becoming an equipment manager is a life long dream and I’m thankful to [RoughRiders Coach and General Manager] Mark Carlson and the RoughRiders for making this possible.”

Degel, who attended Southern Maine Technical College, will join the Riders just prior to the September 14 opening of the team’s training camp.

“We’re very happy to have Matt as part of the RoughRiders’ organization,” said Carlson.

The RoughRiders will open their ninth season on Friday, October 5 against the Chicago Steel in Bensenville, Illinois. The Riders will open at home one night later against the Indiana Ice. 2007-08 season tickets are currently available through the RoughRiders’ business office (319-247-0340). Fans who pay for season tickets in full before August 15 will receive a significant discount in addition to a host of other benefits available exclusively to season ticket holders. Single game tickets will go on sale on a date to be determined in September.