Weisgerber dealing with post-concussion syndrome
HIDALGO - Even though Trevor Weisgerber is eligible to come off injured reserve next Monday, it's highly unlikely he'll be back with the Killer Bees for at least two more weeks and probably much longer.
Weisgerber, who suffered a concussion on a hit from Wichita's Curtiss Patrick on Nov. 29, is still suffering headaches and is coping with post-concussion syndrome. He said he has "no idea" when he will be able to return.
"This is the first time I've ever really had a head injury," Weisgerber said. "I just don't even feel like I'd be able to go out and contribute. I don't even feel comfortable as soon as my heartrate gets up. I get dizzy and stuff like that. Post-concussion is not very good right now."
With Weisgerber's return date uncertain, coach Chris Brooks is preparing as if the veteran forward isn't going to be back for a long time.
"If it's not in another two weeks or four weeks, we've got a lot of hockey to play in the next four weeks," Brooks said. "You have to prepare as if he's not coming back, but what makes it difficult is that he's a vet."
With Weisgerber and Ryan Shmyr hurt, plus the departure of Rob Voltera, Brooks has only one veteran in Robin Bouchard active. Not only are the Bees lacking one of their most experienced players, they are also lacking one of their best playmakers and intelligent skaters.
"He's one of those guys you can play with anybody and get the same thing out of him every night," Brooks said. "His hockey sense is phenomenal and he has a real strong passion for the game. He's one of the most competitive people I've ever met."
Still looking
For the last four games, the Bees have played with only 14 skaters. And after Voltera was waived, RGV has a veteran spot open. Brooks said he is looking to add players, but "not necessarily" a veteran.
"I'm really happy with the chemistry of the team. I think I have a roster right now that understands what I'm trying to do," Brooks said. "I really want to be particular about the next person that comes in because I don't want the next person to upset the apple cart. I want to make sure it's the right fit and they can step in and we can continue to go.
"The last thing I want is to bring somebody in who has a negative impact on what I'm trying to do."
Bad tidings
Off the ice, the 2008-09 season hasn't been the best for minor league hockey. Already, two ECHL teams, the Augusta Lynx and Fresno Falcons have folded, with Fresno closing up shop Monday.
While no CHL teams have folded, the New Mexico Scorpions's future could be in question. KOAT-TV reported on Monday that the Scorpions, who sat out the 2005-06 season, are having financial issues and that their home building, the Santa Ana Star Center isn't making money.
The Scorpions rank 12th in the CHL with an average attendance of 2,471 per game.
Up next
The Bees travel to North Richland Hills on Friday to face Texas then on Saturday head to Wichita. That game against the Thunder will be the Bees' first meeting with the Thunder since Weisgerber's injury.
Brian Sandalow covers the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees for Valley Freedom Newspapers. You can reach him at (956) 683-4436.
