BALKWILL RETURNS FROM IR PRIOR TO WEEKEND SERIES WITH CAROLINA

COLUMBUS, GA - The Columbus River Dragons announced defenseman Nathan Balkwill has been activated from the 15-Day Injured Reserve list, and is eligible to play this weekend against the Carolina Thunderbirds.

Starting with Friday's 7:35 pm game at the Columbus Civic Center, Balkwill marks his return after a scary moment when he was injured two weeks ago against the Mississippi Sea Wolves. Balkwill was knocked unconscious and taken to a local hospital by ambulance. The game was ruled final as the injury occurred in the third period with Columbus leading 8-1 at the time.

"Nathan's recovery is miraculous. To have him back healthy so quickly is a blessing that we do not take lightly," said Ignite Sports and Entertainment COO Jeff Croop. "It put a lot in perspective very quickly for our entire organization. We're thankful to see him return to the ice at full health."

Columbus hosts Carolina on Friday before heading to Winston-Salem for back-to-back games December 30 and 31. Tickets for Friday's game and all remaining River Dragons home games can be purchased through the Civic Center Box Office or online at TicketMaster.com.

-- IT'S GO TIME! --