The Arizona Sundogs announced today that forward Adam Smyth has signed with the team for the upcoming 2012-13 Central Hockey League season.  It will be the fourth straight season for Smyth in a Sundogs uniform.

Last year, the Wiarton, Ontario native enjoyed his most productive campaign of his six seasons playing in the CHL, recording 12 goals and 23 points

Smyth, 29, was acquired by the Sundogs on February 8, 2010 in a trade deadline deal with the Mississippi RiverKings.  In 137 career games for Arizona, Smyth (SMITH) has racked up 18 goals and 25 assists to go along with his 556 penalty minutes.

“I’m happy to be coming back, my family really enjoys Arizona,” said Smyth.  “Last year was tough, but the expectations are to make improvements for next season and find ourselves playing hockey in the playoffs next April.”

The 6-foot-1, 240-pound forward began his pro career in 2003-04 with the United Hockey League’s Port Huron Beacons.  He played the next two seasons with the Gwinnett Gladiators of the ECHL and enjoyed a pair of call-ups to the American Hockey League’s Chicago Wolves during that time.

“(Smyth) gives us veteran leadership, a physical presence, and can contribute offensively as well,” added Sundogs General Manager Chris Presson.  “He’s been a fan-favorite during his time in Arizona and we’re glad to have him back in the organization.”

In 2006-07, he set career highs on the ice with 14 goals and 14 assists for 28 points with the UHL’s Muskegon Fury.  Smyth’s 310 PIM’s two seasons ago with the Sundogs is also a top mark in his playing career.

He is a product of the Ontario Hockey League, where he played four years between the Ottawa 67’s and Owen Sound Attack.

Smyth is the first announced signing of the offseason for the Arizona Sundogs.