Goalie limited to six games last season

FLINT -- After having his rookie season in professional hockey cut short due to injury, goaltender Matt Spezza is set to try it again.

The Flint Generals of the International Hockey League announced today the signing of goaltender Matt Spezza for the 2008-2009 season.

Spezza, who is the younger brother of NHL forward Jason Spezza, joined the Generals in early January but played only six games when he was sidelined with a season-ending groin injury.

The Mississauga, Ontario native won his professional debut in an emergency start in early January in Muskegon. Hockey fans will remember his second victory that took place in Port Huron when he was involved in the goalie fight with Marty Magers of the Port Huron Icehawks.

He notched his third victory on home ice at Perani Arena and Event Center against the Fort Wayne Komets. However, in that game, Spezza played just over 30 minutes when he went down with the groin injury.

"I’m thrilled to have Matt Spezza back with the Generals", said Generals Coach Peter South "I’ve been in constant contact with Matt throughout his rehabilitation process and the commitment that I see he’s giving not only rehabbing his injury, but working on his overall conditioning tells me that Matt Spezza is determined to make a name for himself in the IHL this season".

In six games Spezza had a 3-1-0-0 mark and a 3.19 goals against average and a save percentage of .903. The 6-foot, 2-inch 222 pound back stopper played junior hockey in the Ontario Hockey League with the Kingston Frontenacs, Ottawa 67’s, London Knights and the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.

The signing of Matt Spezza brings the Flint Generals roster to eight for the 2008-2009 season.

Those already inked include Kris Mallette, Greg Bullock, Justin DePretis, John DiPace, Steve Rymsha, Josef Fojtik and Kyle Deck.

The Flint Generals are busy preparing for their 39th season at Perani Arena and Event Center.