The Arizona Sundogs announced today that defensemen Corey Toy and Steven Kaunisto have signed with the team for the upcoming 2012-13 Central Hockey League season.

Toy 24, a Round Hill, VA native is entering his second season as a pro. He played four years with Ohio State University before beginning his career with the Greenville Road Warriors of the ECHL. The 6-foot, 195-pound defenseman played his first game with the Sundogs on October 22, 2011. In his first season, Toy played 48 games and recorded 14 points (2 goals and 12 assists).

Kaunisto 25, was acquired by the Sundogs in a trade with the Missouri Mavericks last season. The 6-foot, 200-pound blueliner played in 36 games and had 7 assists while in Arizona. He began his pro career in 2009-10 with the Reading Royals of the ECHL and in 2010-11 skated with the Wichita Thunder of the CHL where he put up 20 points (5-goals and 15-assists) in 62 games.

“We are glad to have them both back this season,” said Sundogs General Manager Chris Presson. “They both are fan-favorites on the ice and have the type of character we want in our locker room.”

The Arizona Sundogs are the Central Hockey League affiliate of the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes. Their seventh season is set to begin in October 2012. Season tickets, mini-plan, and single-game ticket information is now available by calling (928) 759-6600 or visiting arizonasundogs.com.