Courtesy the Wheeling Nailers

(August 24, 2010) The Wheeling Nailers are known for advancing players to the next level as well as all the way to the NHL. But the latest Nailer to get such an opportunity isn't a player. It is broadcaster Bob Rotruck who will be joining the Adirondack Phantoms in Glens Falls, NY. The Phantoms are the AHL affiliate for the Philadelphia Flyers and are owned by Nailers Co-Presidents Rob and Jim Brooks.

"Bob has really done a great job for us over the past few years," Nailers President Jim Brooks said. "We are very proud and excited to be able to offer him this promotion. He deserves it!"

Rotruck becomes the third Wheeling hockey broadcaster to advance to the AHL level. Dave Goucher with the Wheeling Thunderbirds in 1993-94 moved up to the Providence Bruins and now calls games for the Boston Bruins. Brendan Burke with the Nailers from 2006-08 is entering his third season as the voice of the Peoria Rivermen. Rotruck was the Voice of the Nailers for two seasons from 2008-2010.

He is also the second member of the Nailers staff to be promoted to the Adirondack team. Director of Ticket Sales Chris Perez made the jump last season.

"I'm so thrilled to get this chance and am extremely flattered that Rob and Jim think enough of my abilities to extend this offer," Rotruck said. "It's also a pretty emotional time for me. The fans of Wheeling have been so gracious and welcoming I just can't say enough good things about them. I will be carrying lots of fond memories from my time with the Nailers."

"There are so many to thank and they all helped me so much. Vice President Craig Bommer developed many ideas for me and basically showed me the correct way to do a lot of things when I was still trying to figure it out. Analyst Brock Woods is far and away the best color commentator I've ever worked with and I learned so much about the game from him. "Chief" Puhalski was simply a great guy to work with and also taught me a ton. The list goes on and includes so many players and staff and fans who are just awesome people."

Prior to broadcasting Nailers games, Rotruck has worked with several single-A level baseball teams including the Johnstown Steal, St. Lucie (Fla.) Mets, Vero Beach (Fla.) Dodgers and Elmira Pioneers. He was also the long-time voice of Miami (Ohio) University Hockey beginning when he was a student there. He has called almost 2000 games in the four major sports. This will be his first job at the AAA level.

Good luck Bob!

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