The Roughnecks expected McNish, an aviation systems technician and full-time member of Canada's Armed Forces, would soon be sent to Afghanistan. However, the team announced Wednesday that his Edmonton unit will not be placed under a state of high readiness until next July.

``As a member of the Armed Forces I am quite prepared _ and in fact, want _ to fight for my country,'' McNish said. ``Why else would I enlist for a long-term engagement?

``But as it is, I am delighted to be able to get in another full season with the Roughnecks. Those guys are like a band of brothers to me. The camaraderie is fantastic and I can't wait to go to war with them again.''

McNish, a six-foot-two 230-pound Winnipeg native, joined the Roughnecks prior to the 2005 season after a trade with the Toronto Rock.

In 26 games for Calgary, he has registered 13 points (five goals, eight assists), collected 61 loose balls and recorded 59 penalty minutes.

``We are delighted to learn that we have Ryan's services for the upcoming season,'' Roughnecks GM Kurt Silcott said.

``He is one of our outstanding young guns and I consider him an integral part of our defence.''