ECHL Team Says Former Red Wings Pick Has Died
TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) — The Toledo Walleye of the ECHL say defenseman Bryan Rufenach has died this week while traveling in Switzerland. He was 23.
No other information about Rufenach's death was available.
Rufenach was picked by the Detroit Red Wings in the seventh round of the 2007 draft. He was signed to his first pro contract by the Walleye last year after four years at Clarkson University.
Walleye coach Nick Vitucci says the team's thoughts and prayers are with Rufenach's family. He describes Rufenach as "a great teammate" who "would play any role asked of him."
Rufenach, of Barrie, Ontario, played 54 games with Toledo in 2011-12, scoring 13 goals. He was promoted to Grand Rapids of the American Hockey League on three occasions.
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