Kalamazoo adds Cross, Ianetta

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signing of forward Justin Cross and defenseman Matt Iannetta yesterday.

After a stellar rookie season, which earned him a spot in the 2007 UHL All-Star Classic, Cross returns to Kalamazoo for second season. While getting acclimated to the pro game, the native of Camarillo, California was dazzling in racking up 55 points (26 goals, 29 assists) in 72 games.

“He will compliment an already deep crop of forwards,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “Justin is a double threat on the ice. He can score goals, but also has a great passing ability to set up his teammates.”

Before turning pro, Cross spent four years at Niagara University, where as a member of the Purple Eagles, he recorded 92 points (36 goals, 56 assists) in 138 games.

After lacing up the skates in Italy a year ago, Iannetta returns to North America to compete in his second season as pro.

A hard-working defenseman, Iannetta played four years of collegiate hockey at the University of Waterloo. During his senior season, Iannetta led the Warriors in plus/minus (+10). The native of Woodbridge, Ontario also earned the Coaches Award, which is given to the player that is dedicated, most committed and showing the most leadership to the hockey program.

“After witnessing the preseason, we wanted to add a defenseman that has size and could help us offensively,” said Welsh. “We have heard good things about him and believe he could be the player that will fill that void.”

To make room of the roster the K-Wings waived forward Mike Carter and placed forward Tyler Willis on the 7-day injured reserve list.