The Niagara IceDogs would like to bid farewell to the three over-aged players that are approaching the end of their last season of OHL eligibility.

A ceremony was held prior to Saturday’s game against the Belleville Bulls to honour the OA’s, Reggie Traccitto, Marco Insam, and Josh Moes, all with birthdays in 1989. An emotional video was played for fans attending the game, looking back at some of the best moments the three players had during their tenure with the IceDogs.

For all the fans that could not attend the game and catch the ceremony, here are some anecdotes about these players who will forever be remembered by staff, colleagues, teammates, and fans of the Niagara IceDogs.

Reggie Traccitto was acquired by the IceDogs via trade with the London Knights in 2007, and since then, the 5’11’’, 206-pounder has continued to grow both as a player and teammate. The Oakville native was named assistant captain this year, and his leadership has flourished both on and off the ice. Reggie had a career year with the IceDogs this season, notching 20 goals and 18 assists in 65 games, leading all OHL defensemen in goals. Traccitto also flourished on the power play this season, finishing 10th in the entire OHL for power play goals this season, with a team-leading 15 goals with the man advantage. Traccitto has been a key part in Niagara’s success this year, and will continue to provide confidence, physicality, and a booming shot (clocked at 100 mph in this year’s skills competition) throughout the IceDogs playoff run. Reggie had a fitting end to his final season by scoring 2 goals in his last regular season home game, and he will go down in IceDogs history as one of the best offensive blue-liners the team has seen.

Marco Insam was acquired in the second round of the 2008 OHL import draft. Hailing from Selva Gardena, Italy, this 6’1’’, 211-pounder has racked up 32 goals and 60 points in just two seasons with the IceDogs. In addition to his on ice performance, Marco has proven to be one of the most easy going, positive, and classy guys in the league. Insam seems to score goals when the Dogs need it most, and his size and physical play has been effective in helping with the team’s success.  Marco is a face that will be missed around the rink, and we are proud to have had him on the team.

Last, but certainly not least, is St. Catharines native Josh Moes, or “Moesy” as his teammates like to call him. Acquired in October of 2009 from the Owen Sound Attack for a 5th round pick – quite the steal, Moes has brought experience, personality, and leadership to this young IceDogs team. Although his stay in Niagara was a short one, he has played a major role and fit in very well with the team. He even treated his teammates and fans by singing the National Anthem at the IceDogs Skills Competition. In addition to being an excellent player, Josh is also a stand up guy.. We are very proud to have Josh on the team for his final year, and we certainly hope (and think) that Josh would agree that there would be no better place to finish his OHL career.

Reggie, Marco, and Josh, we wish you good luck with your future endeavors, and you will always hold a place in the hearts of the faithful Niagara fans, and organization.

To all of the IceDogs, good luck in the Playoffs!

 - Jeff Blay, Media Relations
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