Blaze Sign Matt Larke

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The Bloomington Blaze, presented by Mid-Illini Credit Union, has signed another forward to their roster for the 2012-13 season.

Matt Larke is a Central Hockey League returner and former forward for the Dayton Gems who will be wearing a Blaze sweater next season for the first time. He began his professional career in 2008 with the SPHL's Richmond Renegades. Since that time he's played with the Mississippi Surge of the SPHL and the Gems.

During his rookie season in Dayton, Matt posted 25 points (9 goals, 16 assists) in 50 appearances. He also joined the Gems in their first playoff appearance, contributing an assist in postseason action against the Rapid City Rush.

Last season with the Gems, Larke had 30 points (15 goals, 15 assists) in 44 games played. This will be Larke's third season playing for Coach Brian Gratz, who shows his support for the Oxford, Michigan native. "Matt brings tremendous speed to our line up," Gratz said. "He is great in the corners and makes the players around him better and more productive." One of those players is forward Jon Booras, who signed with the Blaze just last week.