Showing posts with label ECHL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ECHL. Show all posts

Sunday, August 22, 2010

The Latest Stockton Thunder Signing, Scott Howes #StkThunder


08/18/2010 8:07 AM - Third year pro makes Stockton his second ECHL stop after two years in Victoria

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MORE: SCOTT HOWES CAREER STATISTICS
VIDEO: "The Goal" - TSN Highlight of the Night
VIDEO: Matt Thomas discusses signing left winger Scott Howes


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today the team has signed unrestricted free agent left wing Scott Howes (HOWZ). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Scott Howes, at just 22 years of age,
brings 13 career multi-point
games to the Thunder.
(photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin)

Howes, 22, will enter his third year at the professional level after spending the last two ECHL seasons with the Victoria Salmon Kings, scoring 22 goals and 48 points (22g-26a) while adding a +1 rating in 86 career games. He was originally signed to an American Hockey League contract by the Manitoba Moose on July 3, 2008.

"Scott brings an elite level of skill and scoring ability that we're excited to add to our lineup," said Thomas. "Additionally, it's thrilling to realize that he still has room to grow as a young player at the pro level. Through the recruiting process, it's become very evident that his thirst for success and competitive desire will make a terrific fit for the group and type of culture we've developed here in Stockton."

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound forward earned a career-high 12 goals and 26 points (12g-14a) last season in 47 games last year for Victoria. During the season, he earned an assist on a Jan. 15, 2010 goal by Adam Taylor against the Bakersfield Condors that was featured in Canada as the "TSN Highlight of the Night" and also on ESPN.com. The originally posted highlight video has collected over one million views on YouTube.com.

Howes suited up in five AHL games for Manitoba in 2008-09, collecting two penalty minutes.

"If there was any new team I was going to end up with, I told my agent, right from the start, that I wanted it to be Stockton," said Howes. "I'm looking forward to staying in the same conference and the support in each game from Thunder fans, who are the loudest and most loyal I've ever seen in one building for my pro career. It's also where I scored the first hat trick of my career, so it already holds a special meaning."

The native of Toronto spent two years (2006-08) of his major junior career with Drummondville and Saint John of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, skating in 113 career games while scoring 118 points (68g-50a) and 68 goals.

Howes led the Sea Dogs with 42 goals in 2007-08 and was the club's leading scorer in the playoffs, notching 26 points (15g-11a) and 15 goals in 14 postseason games.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The Thunder and Alaska Aces meet in the preseason opener on Oct. 5 at Sullivan Arena, beginning at 8:15 p.m. The Thunder and Ontario Reign square off in the only preseason game at Stockton Arena on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by Stockton Thunder-

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Stockton Thunder Add Player / #StkThunder

THUNDERVISION: Matt Thomas Comments on Jordan Foreman Signing


Monday, August 9, 2010

Where Will You Be? Campaign Launched / #StkThunder


08/09/2010 11:43 AM - New campaign for sixth season in the Central Valley unveiled for 2010-11

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced its 2010-11 hockey season will be themed, "WHERE WILL YOU BE?" The new season's marketing campaign aims to spotlight the overall hockey and entertainment experience presented to the fans through game night promotions, special events, community activities and charitable efforts.

The Thunder has averaged over 6,000 fans per game through the turnstiles at Stockton Arena for five consecutive seasons (2005-present) and two years ago, became the first team in the ECHL to lead the league in attendance for four straight seasons since the Florida Everblades accomplished the feat for five straight years (2000-05).

"The concept is based on the individual fan enjoying the shared experience of a Thunder game," said Thunder vice president of marketing Marlena Aranda. "We appreciate and want to recognize the fact that these moments at Thunder games create life long memories for so many."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Thunder has recorded 14 sellouts at the 9,737-seat Stockton Arena since entering the league in 2005-06. Last year, a Thunder record of $656,977 was donated in cash, tickets, memorabilia and other items to charity in 2009-10, toppling its charitable record of over $550,000 set in 2008-09.

The official season artwork and theme was released with a vibrant design adorned in the Thunder's black, gold and white colors. The season's theme will feature Thunder fans, die-hard and casual, in anticipation and celebration of highlights of the Thunder experience that have become a staple attraction: electrifying hockey on the ice and thrilling entertainment.

The artwork to accompany the theme was designed by Donnie Conner in the Thunder marketing department and will be featured prominently with Thunder publications, advertising and merchandise throughout the season. Special events that have become a signature for premier hockey entertainment in the Central Valley will be synergized with the theme, including "Thunder Goes Pink," "Easy Being Green" and more.

Details on 2010-11 FanFest, the prominent event to help launch the season that invites fans to view a Thunder practice, pick up season tickets and participate in themed activities around Stockton Arena, will be announced soon.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. Details on Thunder 2010 training camp information will be announced soon.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Partial-season Mini Plans are also available now and information on individual tickets will be announced soon.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com//.

-Written by Stockton Thunder-

Friday, August 6, 2010

Ben Laing - Equipment Manager of the Year / #StkThunder


08/05/2010 3:53 PM - Rochester, N.Y. native earns award to conclude second season as a professional

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced in conjunction with the ECHL that Thunder head equipment manager Ben Laing has been named recipient of the ECHL "Equipment Manager of the Year" award, presented by Reebok Hockey.

The winner is determined in a vote of the league's equipment managers. As recognition of the yearly award, Laing will receive a pair of 11K skates from Reebok Hockey.

"Benny is well deserving of the award and we couldn't be more proud of him," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "He is a tireless worker, handles himself as a true professional and has done a tremendous job on my staff over the last two seasons. The feedback from our players indicates respect for his efforts and it shows how much it makes a difference in our dressing room culture."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ben Laing helps goaltender Bryan Pitton with a piece of equipment during overtime of Game 3 of the 2010 National Conference Finals. (photo by George Steckler)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laing completed his second season in the ECHL and first in Stockton this year after serving as equipment manager for Fresno in 2008-09. In addition to handling day-to-day equipment duties for the club, Laing handled maintenance and inventory preservation of team supplies while assisting the hockey operations department with administrative duties and supervision of Thunder game day equipment staff.

A Rochester, N.Y. native, Laing previously spent eight years in the hockey retail industry with Locker Room Sports served as assistant coach for his alma mater, Monroe (N.Y.) Community College in 2003-04. Previously, he spent two seasons (2001-03) in the program as a defenseman.

ECHL Equipment Manager of the Year
2009-10 Ben Laing, Stockton Thunder
2008-09 Pat Noecker, Reading Royals
2007-08 Pat Noecker, Reading Royals
2005-06 Chris Burke, Fresno Falcons
2004-05 John Jennings, Florida Everblades
Russ Holden, Reading Royals
2003-04 John Krouse, Pensacola Ice Pilots
2002-03 Tom Severance, Charlotte Checkers

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. Details on Thunder 2010 training camp information will be announced soon.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Partial-season Mini Plans are also available now and information on individual tickets will be announced soon.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by the Stockton Thunder-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Thunder Signs Rookie Center Dan Bartlett / #StkThunder


08/05/2010 10:05 AM - Highly skilled, versatile Princeton product is fifth player to sign in Stockton

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MORE: DAN BARTLETT CAREER STATISTICS
VIDEO: Matt Thomas discusses the signing of Dan Bartlett



STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today that the team has signed free agent rookie center Dan Bartlett (BART-let). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"What jumps out to me about Dan is we get another exciting player with top college credentials who is ready to take the next step in his developing game," said Thomas. "He comes from a great college program at Princeton University with the reputation of producing impact players with character I've had the honor of coaching like Daryl Marcoux, Kyle Hagel and Dustin Sproat. He's one of the youngest, dynamic, ‘one-on-one' players available on the free agent market and has the ability to bring fans out of their seats with his skill level."
Dan Bartlett led Princeton
 in scoring during his
last two seasons.
(photo by Beverly Schaefer)

Bartlett, 24, is the second newcomer to the Thunder roster during the offseason, joining Jordan Cyr, who enters the pro game after leading his college program in scoring for the last two straight seasons.

Bartlett enjoyed a career-high 29 points (16g-13a) and tied a career-high with 16 goals as a 2009-10 senior last season for Princeton, earning second-team All-Ivy honors and the Blackwell Award for the largest contributions in the club's "play, sportsmanship and influence."

The 5-foot-10, 185-pound forward led the Eastern College Athletic Conference tournament in scoring as a 2008-09 junior and was named to the ECAC All-Tournament team.

A native of Portland, Maine, he will be reunited with Thunder defenseman Daryl Marcoux, after the two were teammates during Bartlett's 2006-07 freshman season. He also guided the club to an NCAA Frozen Four tournament appearance as a junior.

"Daryl was very helpful in my decision making process," said Bartlett. "I was excited to hear his endorsement on how great the Thunder organization is, on and off the ice and how exciting it is to be part of it and the surrounding community in Stockton this next season. I'm hoping to contribute offensively to the best of my abilities, but I'm also proud of how my defensive game has improved. I feel all of that will be a good fit into Coach Thomas' intense, up-tempo playing style."

Bartlett totaled 79 points (42g-37a) in 119 career games with the Tigers, spanning four seasons (2007-10).

The contract signing marks the fifth player to sign with the Thunder, joining Marcoux, captain and center Craig Valette, left wing Jordan Cyr and defenseman Steve Vanoosten.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by StocktonThunder.com-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

Monday, August 2, 2010

Stockton Thunder / A Dual Affiliation - Edmonton, San Jose


08/02/2010 1:10 PM -
Thunder renews flourishing relationship with Oilers, aligns with prestigious Northern California neighbor Sharks for 2010-11 season
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TICKETS HERE: See up and coming Oilers and Sharks talent
VIDEO (Coming soon): Press conference highlights
VIDEO (Coming soon): Oilers assistant GM Rick Olczyk one-on-one interview
VIDEO (Coming soon): Sharks radio voice Dan Rusanowsky one-on-one interview

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder of the ECHL and Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League have reached a one-year affiliation agreement for the 2010-11 season effective immediately, while the Thunder and San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League reached a one-year affiliation agreement for the 2010-11 season effective immediately, Thunder president Dan Chapman announced today in conjunction with the Oilers and Sharks at a news conference at Stockton Arena.

QUOTABLES
Thunder president Dan Chapman on San Jose: "The San Jose Sharks have been one of the premier NHL organizations over the last several years and we're very excited to begin working with them this upcoming season. For geographic reasons this affiliation makes a great deal of sense and we also look forward to their participation in making the Thunder an even better team in 2010-11."

 Chapman on renewing with Edmonton: "The Edmonton Oilers have been a terrific partner and we look forward to working with them for a fifth consecutive season in 2010-11. They are very focused on the development of the players, while at the same time working extremely well with our organization to make our team very competitive on the ice."

Oilers Assistant General Manager Rick Olczyk on Stockton: "We have had a tremendous affiliation with Stockton over the past four years and we are very excited about renewing for the upcoming season. The Thunder organization is first class and we are proud to be a partner with them again."

Sharks executive vice president and general manager Doug Wilson on Stockton: "We are very excited to add the Stockton Thunder as our ECHL development affiliate. The Thunder have done a great job bringing winning hockey to their market and we think the proximity of our teams will provide mutual benefits for both franchises on and off the ice."

Thunder head coach Matt Thomas on Edmonton: "My first order of business, this offseason, was renewing what has been an excellent relationship with the Edmonton Oilers. They have made a huge impact in allowing the Thunder to become a premier ECHL program, helping place young talent on the fast track to successful careers in the National Hockey League. I'm looking forward to working with Edmonton's prospects again this season."

Thomas on adding San Jose: "It's an exciting day to add another top notch organization, right in our own backyard, in the San Jose Sharks to our hockey family. They have a proven track record of talent development through their system and it's a tremendous opportunity to strengthen our hockey club. Our current affiliation with the Edmonton Oilers has been a huge success and we're looking forward to building the same relationship with the Sharks. I'm personally looking forward to help develop talent of two of the most exciting organizations during the 10-11 season."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ABOUT THE EDMONTON OILERS/STOCKTON THUNDER AFFILIATION

For the fifth consecutive season, Stockton will serve as the AA minor-league affiliate for Oilers prospects. Since the Thunder and Oilers began their partnership in 2006-07, the Thunder has advanced to the Kelly Cup Playoffs four consecutive years and seven former Thunder players - right wing Troy Bodie, goaltender Devan Dubnyk, right wing Colin McDonald, center Ryan O'Marra, center Tim Sestito, left wing Liam Reddox and defenseman Bryan Young - have gone on to play in the NHL.

Within the Thunder's 23-man roster that advanced to the Conference Finals for the first time in club history last season, eight players were under an NHL or AHL contract through Edmonton:

Liam Reddox is one of seven
players with Thunder experience
to advance and make their NHL debut.
(Getty Images)


  • James Bates (RW)
  • Jordan Bendfeld (D)
  • Kelly Czuy (RW)
  • Riley Emmerson (RW)
  • Matt Marquardt (LW)
  • Andrew Perugini (G)
  • Bryan Pitton (G)
  • Bryan Young (D)

Additionally, goaltender Bryan Pitton became the first player in Thunder history to earn a recall directly to the NHL last season. He suited up for the Oilers on Jan. 2 at San Jose and backed up goaltender Jeff-Drouin Deslauriers, but did not play. Pitton recorded .921 save percentage, won eight of his last 12 ECHL games to finish 9-9-3 in the regular season with a 2.85 GAA and one shutout. Pitton broke a Thunder playoff record with 49 saves, earning his first career postseason shutout on May 5 vs. Idaho (1-0 win in triple overtime).

The Oilers, a member of the NHL's Western Conference and Northwest Division, have been a member of the National Hockey League since the 1979-80 season. A winner of five Stanley Cup Championships (1983-84, 1984-85, 1986-87, 1987-88 and 1989-90), the Oilers became the NHL's first-ever eighth playoff seed in league history to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2005-06 as the league's Western Conference Champion, falling in seven games to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Finals.

Currently led by president of hockey operations Kevin Lowe and general manager Steve Tambellini, the Oilers have sent six players from their NHL tenure to the Hockey Hall of Fame - a list of "who's who" in hockey history - including Wayne Gretzky (NHL's all-time leading scorer), Jari Kurri, Mark Messier, Grant Fuhr, Paul Coffey and Glenn Anderson. Glen Sather (President and General Manager) and Rod Phillips (Radio Broadcaster) have also earned spots in the Hall of Fame.

The agreement renewal is a supplement to the Thunder's additional announced affiliation with the San Jose Sharks of the NHL and Worcester Sharks of the AHL.

In conjunction with the agreement with Edmonton, the Oklahoma City Barons will serve as an AHL affiliate of the Thunder.
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  
The San Jose Sharks won their third straight Pacific Division crown, advanced to the Western Conference Finals and drew a franchise record 719,904 fans to HP Pavilion last year. (photo courtesy San Jose Sharks)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ABOUT THE SAN JOSE SHARKS/STOCKTON THUNDER AFFILIATION

Stockton will serve as the AA minor-league affiliate for Sharks prospects, aligning two professional Northern California hockey clubs separated by just over 80 miles of distance. San Jose was affiliated with Kalamazoo of the ECHL last season and during the year, the K-Wings were North Division champions and finished tied for the best record in the American Conference with 94 points (42-20-8).

Six players were assigned to Kalamazoo from San Jose last season, including defensemen Will Colbert, Louis Liotti and Mitch Versteeg, right wingers Matt Jones and Dean Strong and goaltender Tyson Sexsmith.

The agreement, which began as a working partnership in January 2010, is a supplement to the Thunder's recently renewed affiliation with the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL and Oklahoma City Barons of the AHL.

Stockton and Edmonton have worked as affiliated partners since 2006-07 and since then, the Thunder has helped promote seven players to make their debut in the NHL.As hockey neighbors, both clubs also share similar honors in sports and entertainment. The Thunder is a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," awarded to teams that are first-rate, who excel in all categories of sales and marketing, and who distinguish themselves in their community, both on and off the ice. The Thunder led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and has drawn over an average of 6,000 fans per game through five consecutive years.

The Sharks recently finished as the 12th best overall franchise in ESPN's "Ultimate Standings," ranking all teams from the National Hockey League, Major League Baseball, the National Football League and the National Basketball Association according to an in-depth survey conducted by ESPN The Magazine. The "Ultimate Standings" ranked every franchise according to how much they give back to fans for all of time, money and emotion invested by each fan.

Both Stockton and San Jose advanced to their respective league's Conference Final playoff round last season.

The Sharks, a member of the NHL's Western Conference and Pacific Division, have been a member of the National Hockey League since the 1991-92 season. The Sharks have won three consecutive Pacific Division titles and have won five division championships (2001-02, 2003-04, 2007-10) in franchise history. In 2008-09, San Jose captured their first President's Trophy with the NHL's best regular season record (53-18-11, 117 points).

Like the Northern California-neighboring Thunder, the Sharks have enjoyed box office success each season on their own home ice and in the last four seasons, San Jose has drawn a total of 2,865,106 fans in the last 164 regular season games to HP Pavilion at San Jose. The Sharks set a franchise record with 719,904 fans attending the team's 41 home games in 2009-10.

In conjunction with the agreement with San Jose, the Worcester Sharks will serve as an AHL affiliate of the Thunder.

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey club* 

LIVE TweetCast / Stockton Thunder Press Conference With Oilers and Sharks


Welcome to another LIVE TweetCast presented by OilersJambalaya.com and OilFieldHockey.com.

Today the Edmonton Oilers and the San Jose Sharks will be announcing that they will be affiliated with the Stockton Thunder ECHL hockey club.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Slow Days in the Oilogosphere / Jeff Deslauriers / Stockton Thunder Affiliation

With the Oilers news at an almost standstill, the good folks of the Oilogosphere are running out of things to write about, myself included. It's not an easy gig right now, but we keep plugging away.

Here's what's happened lately.

Yesterday the Edmonton Oilers came to terms with restricted free agent, Jeff Deslauriers. He signs a 1 year, $1.05 million dollar contract and I think it's a great deal for both. I don't expect JDD to be an Oiler by next season so a 1 year deal is good enough for now. And at the $1.05 price, that's not bad either. As a comparable, Devan Dubnyk was just signed to a 2 year $800,000 contract not long ago.

Tomorrow starting at 12:00 noon MDT, the Edmonton Oilers and the San Jose Sharks are holding a press conference together to announce a joint agreement with both teams using the Stockton Thunder as their respective ECHL affiliate. We will see what we can do... maybe a LIVE TweetCast???

On a side note, this new twitter account started following us two days ago and it looks like it is going to be a good one to follow. It is publishing 20 Oilers blogs on it's feed, including Oilers Jambalaya. Follow @Oilogosphere.

For all the OKC Barons fans out there, Jen Sharpe from the EdmontonOilers.com has written a good Barons report about the team and what's on the go right now. Go here to read it.

As the boring days of summer continues... we will be here.

-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Friday, July 30, 2010

Benton's Blog / Euro Trip / Stockton Thunder Loses Players



07/29/2010 10:06 AM - Benton's Blog

Didn't we document in this blog space several weeks ago about the lure of Europe?

It's happening. The lure of big money, less games and international competition has taken some bite out of the Thunder roster from 2009-10:

- Chris D'Alvise (pictured) - Italy
- Justin DaCosta - Czech Republic
- J.F. Caudron - Italy
- Colin Hemingway - England


Andrew Perugini, Kelly Czuy and Bryan Young have also signed overseas, but they're asterisks in the "players leaving" category because they were under an NHL or AHL contract last season, not an ECHL contract.

That's now seven players from last season's playoff roster we can address as "the departed."

Now, stop before you hit that big, red, shiny, imposing panic button.

1. As we've said many times, don't forget how much the ECHL is now a "step-ladder" league where you celebrate your favorite player moving up, not witnessing the huge chunk of veterans whose careers are dying. Europe, as much of the AHL and NHL, is part of that.

2. Don't overlook the leadership core retained from last season (Valette, Marcoux) - with Steve Vanoosten already inked for next season. Anthony Aiello, Garet Hunt and Trevor Hunt have expressed their interest in returning, so we'll see how those play out. Assuming those potentials come to fruition, you have six returners back into the mix.

3. There's also rights retained to Aiello, Ryan Constant, Jason Pitton and more - making the potential returners at eight.

4. There are 19 teams this season - meaning - less jobs, meaning - more premium players available on the free agent market.

5. The affiliation factor and how much it can provide you with supplemental, elite-ECHL level talent and lure more potential free agents with the possibility of playing in front of said affiliated team's scouts and upper brass.

With all those factors, eight returners in a roster of 20 active players isn't a bad ratio in a league that can often serve as a revolving door, year-after-year.

It's still only late July, and the hot stove season hasn't even kicked into fifth gear. Enjoy it and with how the Thunder roster for 2010-11 is continuing to evolve!

Mike Benton has served the Thunder as radio broadcaster since the team's inception. Got a question or comment? E-mail Mike at mbenton@stocktonthunder.com

-Written by Mike Benton of the StocktonThunder.com-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder hockey club*

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Stockton Thunder Signs Prospect Jordan Cyr


07/28/2010 9:20 AM - Holy Cross product finished as leading scorer last two seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MORE: Jordan Cyr career statistics
VIDEO: Matt Thomas discusses signing Jordan Cyr

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today that the team has signed free agent rookie left wing Jordan Cyr (SEER). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Jordan was a player we were trying to sign toward the end of last season when college players became free agents, so we're excited to finally get him on board," said Thomas. "He was one of the first players I actively recruited this offseason and all signs point to him being a first year, impact forward, similar to Oren Eizenman and Chris D'Alvise when they were rookies. He has touch, ability to put the puck in the net and make other players better that are around him."
Jordan Cyr led Holy Cross
in scoring for the last
two seasons, leading to
back-to-back program MVP honors.

(photo by Peter Cooke)


Cyr, 24, is the reigning back-to-back leading scorer and Most Valuable Player honoree for College of the Holy Cross (NCAA) and last season, paced the Crusaders with 30 points (14g-16a) in 29 games while registering a career high 16 assists.

The 5-foot-10, 186-pound winger enjoyed a career-high 19 goals and 32 points (19g-13a) in 37 games as a 2008-09 sophomore.

Through three collegiate seasons (2006-07, 2008-10) at Holy Cross and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (NCAA), he scored 63 points (34g-29a) in 77 games and was a teammate of two-year Thunder center Oren Eizenman as a 2006-07 freshman at R.P.I.

"I'm looking forward to bringing a very hard working approach and scoring touch to Stockton, night in and night out," said Cyr. "I pride myself on being an offensive player and reliable at both ends of the ice. It's very exciting to come to what seems to be an absolute, first class organization in the Thunder, that has tons of fan support and is a fun place to play."

The contract signing marks the fourth player to sign with the Thunder, joining captain and center Craig Valette and defensemen Daryl Marcoux and Steve Vanoosten.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by the Stockton Thunder-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

Friday, July 23, 2010

Stockton Thunder Announce Pre-Season Schedule



07/23/2010 1:15 PM - Home battle with Ontario coming Oct. 8 at Stockton Arena, two-game series at Alaska scheduled for Oct. 5-6 at 8:15 p.m.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, has announced a four-game preseason schedule for the 2010-11 season which starts on the road, Oct. 5 against the Alaska Aces at 8:15 p.m.

The Thunder will host the Ontario Reign in the team's lone preseason appearance at Stockton Arena, starting at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 8. Ticket information will be announced soon. The home game is part of a special home-and-home style series with the Reign and both teams meet the following night in Ontario at 7:00 p.m. at a site to be announced.

The Thunder will launch the preseason schedule with a two-game series at Alaska, marking the team's first inter-state preseason battle with an ECHL opponent.

STOCKTON THUNDER 2010-11 PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE (all times PT)
DATE                                  OPPONENT                LOCATION
TIME
TUESDAY Oct. 5             @ ALASKA              Sullivan Arena 8:15 p.m.
WEDNESDAY Oct. 6      @ ALASKA              Sullivan Arena 8:15 p.m.
FRIDAY Oct. 8                    ONTARIO             Stockton Arena 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY Oct. 9         @ ONTARIO             TBA 7:00 p.m.

Stockton and Alaska will meet for the first time since the Thunder eliminated the Aces from the Kelly Cup Playoffs, a 3-1 series win in the 2010 National Conference Quarterfinal. Both teams will also meet nine times during the regular season, starting Wednesday, Dec. 15 at Sullivan Arena at 8:15 p.m.

The Thunder and Ontario, who are competing in their third year as in-state rivals of the Pacific Division, will meet ten times in the regular season including Opening Night, starting at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 15 at Stockton Arena. The Thunder went 7-3-0 in ten games last season against the Reign.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Partial-season Mini Plans are also available now and information on individual tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by the Stockton Thunder-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Stockton Thunder Re-Sign Steve Vanoosten


07/21/2010 9:30 AM -
Free agent blueliner is third member returning from 09-10 Conference Finalist

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MORE: Steve Vanoosten career statistics
VIDEO: Matt Thomas discusses Steve Vanoosten re-signing


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today that the team has re-signed unrestricted free agent defenseman Steve Vanoosten (Van-OO-stehn). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Steve progressed really well in his first pro season and we're eager to see what he can do in continuing to develop as a solid, two-way defenseman," said Thomas. "I thought he was, arguably, one of the best players on the ice for us consistently throughout the playoffs. He was solid in shutting down the other team's top units and was huge on our power-play. The sky's the limit for him in terms of what he's capable of doing."

Steve Vanoosten's highlight game was a 3-assist effort in Game 4 of the National Conference Final against the Idaho Steelheads.
(photo by Sean Blair)

Vanoosten, 25, returns for his second season in a Thunder uniform after suiting up in 52 games for the club last year, scoring 19 points (3g-16a) and adding a +6 rating from the blueline.

His scoring output improved into the Kelly Cup Playoffs, when he registered seven points (2g-5a) and two power-play goals in 15 games, helping guide the Thunder to their first ever appearance in the Conference Finals.

The 6-foot-1, 195-pound blueliner was originally signed by the Thunder as a free agent on August 4, 2009 and posted a career-high three points (assists) in the playoffs, against the Idaho Steelheads on May 7 (Game 4, National Conference Final).

Vanoosten, a native of Langley, B.C., previously spent four years (2005-09) of his college hockey career at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks (NCAA) where he skated in 145 career games, scoring 20 points (3g-17a) while amassing 93 penalty minutes.

He recorded a college career-high seven points (1g-6a) and added 22 penalty minutes in 38 games as a 2006-07 sophomore.

"Definitely, the excitement is high to come back this next season," said Vanoosten. "We finished on a good note last year by making it far in the playoffs and I'm excited to see what our team can do in building off it. Coming back to the city of Stockton is exciting because of the fan support and it was a pleasant surprise to see how the game has grown in California. I'm expecting to pick up where I left off last season, contribute with a growing role, and help our team make another great run together."

The contract signing marks the third player to return from last season's Thunder roster, joining captain and center Craig Valette and defenseman Daryl Marcoux.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by StocktonThunder.com-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

Monday, July 19, 2010

Rowbotham shares his Goals

In this video, Stockton Thunder Owner Brad Rowbotham shares his thoughts on what his team needs to do to be successful during a Fan Forum.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Stockton Thunder / ECHL Ticket Department of the Year


06/17/2010 4:06 PM - Organization earns second honor, drew over 6,000 fans per game for fifth straight season

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced that the Thunder organization has been named recipient of the 2010 ECHL Ticket Department of the Year award at the recent league-wide meetings held in Las Vegas.

"Winning this award for the second time in our five seasons is a true testament to the hard work of our entire staff," said Thunder president Dan Chapman. "In difficult economic times you have to be creative and thorough in your efforts to attract more fans and our staff has done a great job in that regard. We're also so very fortunate to have such a dedicated fan base that supports Thunder hockey throughout Northern California."

The award marks the second honor for the Thunder, who was co-recipient of the award in 2006. The Thunder ticket sales department is led by vice president of sales Dave Piecuch and comprised of director of group sales Alex Geche and account executives Vince Munguia, Clint Eastman, Michael Koebler, Robert Norton and Alex Wheatley.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thunder account executive Vince Munguia, delivering season tickets to awaiting Thunder fans at "FanFest", was part of the organization's second ECHL Ticket Department of the Year honoree.
(photo by George Steckler)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Thunder, a four-time leader in ECHL attendance, averaged over 6,000 fans per game at Stockton Arena and drew over 200,000 fans at the gate last season for the fifth straight year. Welcoming its one millionth fan through the turnstiles last season, the Thunder has drawn 14 sellouts in franchise history and had five crowds of 8,000 fans or more in 2009-10.
Enjoying a season which included advancement to the National Conference Final for the first time in Thunder history, the team went 17-12-7 at home and 16-6-4 in the last 26 home games.

"Thunder Goes Pink IV," presented by St. Joseph's Medical Center in association with Food-4-Less/Rancho San Miguel Markets and Antonini Freight Express, once again proved to be a definitive success, where 16,368 fans through two games on Nov. 6-7 helped raise $32,480 in cash, split evenly between the event beneficiaries: American Cancer Society - Stockton Field Office and St. Joseph's Foundation - Breast Cancer Services.

This year, the Stockton Thunder continued its growing "Easy Being Green" Campaign, with a "green weekend" on March 5-6 in two games against Victoria. The two-day event, which drew over 13,500 fans, featured a pre-game "Green Fair" (before each game) featuring local eco-friendly businesses and organizations distributing information and green-themed giveaways.

In front of a sold out crowd of 9,737 on Jan. 30 against Victoria, the Thunder was able to collect a record 4,348 bears and other stuffed animals on "Teddy Bear Toss" night to donate to the United Way who in turn distributed them to local children's charities.


Year        Team
2009-10 Stockton Thunder
2008-09 Cincinnati Cyclones
2007-08 Reading Royals and Victoria Salmon Kings
2006-07 Florida Everblades and Alaska Aces
2005-06 Las Vegas Wranglers and Stockton Thunder
2004-05 Bakersfield Condors and Long Beach Ice Dogs
2003-04 Alaska Aces
2002-03 Reading Royals


OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting www.stocktonthunder.com. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual tickets and mini-plans will be announced soon.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season tickets for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

*reprinted by Oilers Jambalaya with permission from the Stockton Thunder hockey club*

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Why Do We Care About The Stockton Thunder? (ECHL)

The Stockton Thunder is an ECHL team that has an affiliation (*not yet confirmed for this upcoming season*) with both the Edmonton Oilers (NHL), and the Oklahoma City Barons (AHL) Here is why the Thunder are glad for their affiliations.

Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers, one of the most storied teams in hockey history, extended its affiliation agreement with the Stockton Thunder in the summer of 2009 after the Thunder advanced to the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the third consecutive season, increased a total of four alum that have advanced onto the NHL and produced eight ECHL All-Star selections in three seasons.

For the fifth (**not yet confirmed**) consecutive season, Stockton will serve as the AA minor-league affiliate for Oilers prospects. Since the Thunder and Oilers began their partnership in 2006-07, the Thunder has advanced to the Kelly Cup Playoffs (edit) four* consecutive years and four former Thunder players - right wing Troy Bodie, center Tim Sestito, left wing Liam Reddox and defenseman Bryan Young - have gone on to play in the NHL.

Sestito made his NHL debut with the Oilers last season on Nov. 26 against the Los Angeles Kings. The 6-foot, 195-pound forward played in 66 games for the Thunder in 2006-07, ranking second on the club with 132 penalty minutes while scoring 26 points (13g-13a). Sestito, who wore the "C" as captain for the Springfield Falcons of the AHL last year, helped guide the Thunder to the first Kelly Cup Playoff berth in team history during 2006-07 and scored three points (2g-1a) in six playoff games, ranking tied for second on the team in playoff scoring.

Bodie debuted with the Anaheim Ducks on Jan. 16 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The 6-foot-4, 219-pound forward was originally selected by the Oilers in the ninth round (278th overall) in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft and skated in 46 games for the Thunder in 2006-07, ranking second on the club with 21 goals while amassing 38 points (21g-17a) and 80 penalty minutes. Bodie added two assists in six Kelly Cup Playoff games and represented the Thunder in the 2007 ECHL All-Star Game in Boise, Idaho.

In total, seven Thunder players, including two who have been selected in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft, have been named to play in the ECHL All-Star Game in the last three years while in the Oilers farm system. Goaltender Devan Dubnyk, a first-round selection of the Oilers (14th overall) in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, set Thunder single-season records in 06-07 for wins (24), minutes played (2,529), lowest goals-against-average (2.56) and save percentage (.921). Dubnyk made a game-high tying 17 saves in the second period of the 2007 ECHL All-Star Game for the National Conference.

Center Ryan O'Marra, who was selected in the first round (15th overall) by the New York Islanders in the 2005 draft and an Oilers trade acquisition in 2006-07, was originally named to the National Conference squad at the 2008 Chase Chevrolet ECHL All-Star Game shortly before earning a recall to Springfield of the American Hockey League. O'Marra scored 20 points (11g-9a) in 24 games with the Thunder last year and added nine points (2g-7a) in six Kelly Cup Playoff games.

Last year, Thunder forwards Cory Urquhart and Ryan Huddy played under AHL contracts with Springfield and were named to the National Conference all-star team. Huddy, whose father Charlie previously was an assistant coach and was a member of five Stanley Cup champion teams with the Oilers as a defenseman, led the Thunder with a club record 73 points (35g-38a) and 35 goals in 69 games, ranking ninth overall and third in ECHL rookie scoring.

Urquhart's 60 points (28g-32a) and 28 goals in 57 games paced second on the Thunder in both categories, adding a team-high tying five game-winning goals. His 16 points (10g-6a) and 10 goals in 14 postseason games broke Thunder playoff scoring records in both categories last season.

The Oilers, a member of the NHL's Western Conference and Northwest Division, have been a member of the National Hockey League since the 1979-80 season. A winner of five Stanley Cup Championships (1983-84, 1984-85, 1986-87, 1987-88 and 1989-90), the Oilers became the NHL's first-ever eighth playoff seed in league history to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2005-06 as the league's Western Conference Champion, falling in seven games to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Finals.

Currently led by president of hockey operations Kevin Lowe and general manager Steve Tambellini, the Oilers have sent six players to the Hockey Hall of Fame - a list of "who's who" in hockey history - including Wayne Gretzky (NHL's all-time leading scorer), Jari Kurri, Mark Messier, Grant Fuhr, Paul Coffey and Glenn Anderson. Glen Sather (Head Coach/President and General Manager) and Rod Phillips (Radio Broadcaster) have also earned spots in the Hall of Fame.


A look at the Oilers five Stanley Cup championships:

•1983-84: defeated New York Islanders, 4 games to 1
•1984-85: defeated Philadelphia Flyers, 4 games to 1
•1986-87: defeated Philadelphia Flyers, 4 games to 3
•1987-88: defeated Boston Bruins, 4 games to 0
•1989-90: defeated Boston Bruins, 4 games to 1

WHAT THEY HAVE SAID:

"We are pleased to once again extend our agreement for another year with Stockton. The Thunder organization have provided our players with a positive environment that enables them to develop as professionals. We look forward to another successful season with Stockton in 2009-10."
- Former Edmonton Oilers VP of Hockey Operations Kevin Prendergast

"The Stockton Thunder are very excited about entering into our fourth year of an affiliation with the Edmonton Oilers. Developing young players and putting a winning team on the ice are the two most important factors when considering who our NHL partner will be. The Oilers and Thunder clearly are on the same page in this regard and we look forward to achieving both of these objectives with Edmonton during the 2009-10 season."
- Thunder president Dan Chapman

"We're excited to once again partner with a first class organization in the Edmonton Oilers and the opportunity to work with their exceptional front office is an advantage to the Thunder. They continue to show a strong commitment to strengthening prospect development and our on-ice product by being visibly active when it comes to scouting and on-hands teaching with prospects in our farm system. We look forward to continued success in developing future Oilers talent and helping promote a winning culture they can take on their road to the National Hockey League."
- Thunder head coach Matt Thomas

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Contact info:

Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club
11230 - 110 Street
Edmonton, AB. T5G 3H7
Phone: 780-414-4000
http://www.edmontonoilers.com/

Oklahoma City Barons Hockey Club
P.O. Box 1478
Oklahoma City, OK 73101
Phone: (405) 232-4625
Fax: (405) 232-4622
http://www.okcbarons.com/

Stockton Thunder Hockey Club
248 West Fremont Street
Stockton, CA 95203
Thunder Info Line (209)373-1500
Fax (209)373-1525
http://www.stocktonthunder.com/

*Reprinted with permission from Stockton Thunder Professional Hockey Club, ECHL. The Stockton Thunder are a proud 'AA' affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) and the Oklahoma City Barons (AHL) *

Stockton Thunder Add All-Star Aaron Clarke


06/16/2010 12:55 PM - Clarke completes future considerations trade for Colin Power, is one of 18 players eligible for qualifying offers by July 1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MORE: AARON CLARKE CAREER STATISTICS

 STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers, has acquired 2009 ECHL All-Star left wing Aaron Clarke from the Wheeling Nailers, completing the original Dec. 4, 2009 transaction that had right wing Colin Power acquired by Wheeling from the Thunder for future considerations, Thunder head coach Matt Thomas announced today.

Clarke is one of 18 players named to the Thunder 2009-10 season ending roster, announced today, which includes 17 ECHL-contracted players who appeared in a Thunder uniform for the season. Of the 18 players, eight can be issued Qualifying Offers, which must be submitted to the ECHL on July 1.

"Aaron is an exciting, point-per-game caliber player that we couldn't pass up on the chance to acquire," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "With players like Oren Eizenman getting a chance to move onto the American Hockey League, we're hoping that possibly, a player like Aaron can come in and use his skill and leadership to help replace those minutes and points."

Aaron Clarke's rights were acquired to complete the Dec. 4 trade, sending Colin Power to the Wheeling Nailers. (photo by Rick Bacmanski)

Clarke, 27, comes off a 2009-10 season where he shattered career highs in goals (25), points (57) and assists (32), additionally ranking third on the Nailers in scoring and goals. Contributing on the penalty kill, his five shorthanded goals, a career-high as well, led the ECHL.

Completing his third year, the 5-foot-9, 185-pound forward racked up 14 assists on the power-play which ranked tied for second on the team.

The Peterborough, Ontario native earned a selection to the American Conference All-Star team in 2009, his first ECHL All-Star berth and scored a goal in the game at Reading. Serving the Nailers as captain, Clarke capped off the year with 37 points (11g-26a) in 40 games for Wheeling and chipped in with three goals and an assist in seven playoff games.

Clarke also earned three separate trips to the AHL on professional tryout agreements (PTO) that season, combining for seven points (3g-4a) and six penalty minutes in 32 games with Binghamton, Providence and Albany.

In 159 career ECHL games with Wheeling, spanning three seasons (2007-10), he has scored 130 points (55g-75a) and totaled 106 penalty minutes.

Previously, Clarke split four years (2003-07) of his college playing career between Niagara University and Robert Morris University (NCAA), suiting up in 95 games while scoring 27 goals, 63 points (27g-36a) and totaling 114 penalty minutes.

Clarke joins the Thunder season-ending roster, which under ECHL guidelines may include up to 20 players. Season-ending rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2009-10 (i.e. players who were under contract to teams in either the National Hockey League or the American Hockey League).

The Thunder season ending roster is as follows:

FORWARDS
  • (LW) J.F. Caudron
  • (LW) Aaron Clarke
  • (C) Chris D'Alvise
  • (C) Oren Eizenman
  • (LW) Igor Gongalsky
  • (LW) Jason Pitton
  • (RW) Brett Hemingway
  • (RW) Colin Hemingway
  • (LW) Garet Hunt
  • (LW) Matt Robinson
  • (C) Craig Valette  
DEFENSEMEN 
  • (D) Anthony Aiello
  • (D) Ryan Constant
  • (D) Justin DaCosta
  • (D) Trevor Hunt
  • (D) Kenny MacAulay
  • (D) Daryl Marcoux
  • (D) Steve Vanoosten

SEASON ENDING ROSTER, QUALIFYING OFFER GUIDELINES
Each team is entitled to reserve rights to a maximum of eight players from the list of 20 by extending a qualifying offer no later than July 1. Of the eight qualified players, no more than four can be veterans (260 regular season professional hockey games played as of the start of the 2010-11 season). Players on open qualifying offers cannot be traded. Teams are not required to extend a qualifying offer to players who sign a contract prior to July 1.

The qualifying offer must remain open for acceptance until Aug. 1 at which time the qualifying offer becomes null and void and the team may sign the qualified player to any salary or may elect to take no further action. Teams that extend a valid qualifying offer to a non-veteran player shall retain the rights to that qualified player for one playing season. A team that extends a valid qualifying offer to a veteran player will retain the rights to that veteran until Aug. 1.

After Aug. 1, if the veteran player is not signed to a contract by the team, the veteran shall be deemed a restricted free agent and shall be entitled to seek and secure offers of employment from other ECHL teams. Restricted free agents may not be traded. When a restricted free agent receives a contract offer from a team other than the team with the player's rights and the restricted free agent wishes to accept the contract offer, the restricted free agent and the offering member must, within 24 hours, notify the ECHL, the team with the player's rights and the Professional Hockey Players' Association.

The member with the player's rights shall have seven days after the date it is notified to exercise its right to match the contract offer. If a restricted free agent is not signed to either an offer sheet or a contract by an ECHL team by Aug. 31, the player shall be deemed an unrestricted free agent.

Qualifying Offers from each individual team are due to the ECHL league office on July 1, 2010.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting www.stocktonthunder.com. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual tickets and min-plans will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/ .

*reprinted by Oilers Jambalaya with permission from the Stockton Thunder hockey club*

Friday, June 11, 2010

Stockton Thunder Promotional / Giveaway 2010/11 Schedule


06/11/2010 3:24 PM - The popular Thunder Goes Pink event, new skateboard decks and hockey sticks mark the highlights of promotions and giveaways for 2010-11

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced its promotional and giveaway calendar for the 2010-11 regular season with a lineup of popular, familiar and anticipated attractions for the 2010-11 season, the sixth in the San Joaquin Valley.

With the Thunder looking to reclaim the lead in ECHL attendance for the fifth time in six seasons the regular season launches on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 15-16 for Opening Night presented by AT&T against the Ontario Reign, starting the first weekend series with two 7:30 p.m. games at Stockton Arena.

"Promotional nights are just another piece to the puzzle in providing our fans with a greater experience when coming to see Thunder hockey," said Thunder president Dan Chapman. "We're proud of how the promotional lineup for the 2010-11 season is very diverse and is intended to appeal to fans young and old alike."

As a part of "Opening Night," the first 2,000 fans will receive a Thunder schedule poster at the Friday game and the first 1,000 kids (ages 12 and under) will receive a commemorative Thunder t-shirt on Saturday.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


All things pink - jerseys, ice, giveaways return Nov. 5-7 for Thunder Goes Pink V, continuing the cause for breast cancer awareness. (photo by George Steckler)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Returning for the fifth season as the flagship fundraising event, the wildly popular "Thunder Goes Pink" is back as an expanded three-day event on Friday through Sunday, Nov. 5-7 against the Bakersfield Condors. Losing only once in regulation, the Thunder have carried a lifetime 5-1-2 record in the "Thunder Goes Pink" series that turns the games at Stockton Arena into a pink-themed spectacle for local breast cancer awareness and fundraising for the cause.

Both Friday and Saturday's games begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday's start is at 4:00 p.m. A tradition that headlines the annual event, newly designed special pink-accented jerseys will be worn by the Thunder during all three games and will be available for silent auction to all fans in attendance for the weekend, while a handful of the game-worn jerseys will be available for bidding during live auction immediately following the Saturday, Nov. 6 game. Proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society - Stockton Field Office and the St. Joseph's Foundation - Breast Cancer Services.

Last year, $32,480 in funds raised was split evenly between the event beneficiaries: American Cancer Society - Stockton Field Office and St. Joseph's Foundation - Breast Cancer Services. The Thunder has boosted its all-time, four-year total of funds raised through "Pink" to over $145,000 while over 16,000 fans were in attendance for the two games last year.

Free commemorative giveaway items for fans in attendance that weekend will include pink-colored headwear to female fans ages 13 and over in attendance. Additional "Thunder Goes Pink" details and giveaway items will be announced soon.

Additionally, the sixth annual "Teddy Bear Toss" is scheduled to return to Stockton Arena on Saturday, Jan. 22 against Ontario at 7:30 p.m. Fans are invited to bring and throw teddy bears or other stuffed animals onto the ice immediately following the Thunder's first goal of the game.

Last year's Teddy Bear Toss, played before a sellout crowd of 9,737, netted over 4,348 bears and other stuffed animals to donate to the United Way, who in turn distributed them to local children's charities. It brought the three-year total to over 19,800 animals distributed by the United Way of San Joaquin County to various children's charities, hospitals and police and fire departments throughout Stockton.

For fans looking to expand their cold weather items and show their Thunder pride, Thunder fleece blankets will be given away to fans (ages 13 and over) on Saturday, Dec. 11 when the Thunder host the Utah Grizzlies at 7:30 p.m.

Thunder replica jersey giveaways are scheduled for the upcoming season, including two games on Saturdays, Mar. 5 and Mar. 19 (against Alaska and Idaho respectively) where the first 2,000 kids (ages 12 and under) will take home a replica gold "third jersey," just like what the pros wear on the ice.

Also new to the giveaway lineup for the budding skateboard enthusiast is an exclusive Thunder skateboard deck, given away to the first 1,000 fans (ages 8-18) in attendance on Saturday, Feb. 5 against the Utah Grizzlies at 7:30 p.m. Replica wood hockey sticks, similar to what the pros use on the ice, will be given away to the first 1,000 kids (ages 12 and under) on both Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 29-30, when the Thunder host the Las Vegas Wranglers at 7:00 p.m.

The third annual Thunder's "Easy Being Green" event is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 25-26 at Stockton Arena against the Victoria Salmon Kings at 7:30 p.m. The two-day event, which drew over 13,500 fans last season, featured a pre-game "Green Fair" (before each game) featuring local eco-friendly businesses and organizations distributing information and green-themed giveaways.

Headlining the lineup of green-themed giveaways are eco-friendly Thunder "green" bags, free to the first 2,000 fans (ages 18 and over) in attendance, reusable for the home, grocery store, leisure trip, as well as school materials.

The Thunder will celebrate "Fan Appreciation Night" on Wednesday, Mar. 30 against the Las Vegas Wranglers at 7:00 p.m. for its final regular season home game.

The Thunder, a four-time leader in ECHL attendance, averaged over 6,000 fans per game and drew over 200,000 fans at the gate last season for the fifth straight year. Welcoming its one millionth fan through the turnstiles last season, the Thunder has drawn 14 sellouts in franchise history and had five crowds of 8,000 fans or more in 2009-10.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting www.stocktonthunder.com. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual tickets and mini-plans will be announced soon.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season tickets for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.


STOCKTON THUNDER 2010-11 PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE
(As of June 10)

DATE OPPONENT TIME PROMOTION/ GIVEAWAY
Fri. Oct. 15 Ontario 7:30 p.m. Opening Night Poster Giveaway
Sat. Oct. 16 Ontario 7:30 p.m. T-Shirt Giveaway
Fri. Oct. 22 Ontario 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Fri. Nov. 5 Bakersfield 7:30 p.m. "Thunder Goes Pink V"
Sat. Nov. 6 Bakersfield 7:30 p.m. "Thunder Goes Pink V"
Sun. Nov. 7 Bakersfield 4:00 p.m. "Thunder Goes Pink V"/ Family Day
Sat. Nov. 20 Idaho 7:30 p.m. Replica Jersey Giveaway
Sun. Nov. 21 Victoria 4:00 p.m. "Coats For Kids"/ Family Day
Wed. Nov. 24 Las Vegas 7:00 p.m. Family Night
Fri. Nov. 26 Utah 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Sat. Dec. 11 Utah 7:30 p.m. Fleece Blanket Giveaway
Wed. Dec. 29 Las Vegas 7:00 p.m. Hockey Stick Giveaway/ Family Night
Thur. Dec. 30 Las Vegas 7:00 p.m. Hockey Stick Giveaway/ Family Night
Wed. Jan. 12 Bakersfield 7:00 p.m. Family Night
Fri. Jan. 21 Ontario 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Sat. Jan. 22 Ontario 7:30 p.m. "Teddy Bear Toss"
Fri. Jan. 28 Idaho 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Sat. Jan. 29 Idaho 7:30 p.m. Adult Replica Jersey Giveaway
Sun. Jan. 30 Idaho 4:00 p.m. Family Day
Fri. Feb. 4 Utah 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Sat. Feb. 5 Utah 7:30 p.m. Skateboard Deck Giveaway
Fri. Feb. 18 Victoria 7:30 p.m. Equipment Bag Giveaway
Sat. Feb. 19 Victoria 7:30 p.m. Replica Jersey Giveaway
Sun. Feb. 20 Victoria 4:00 p.m. Family Day
Fri. Mar. 4 Alaska 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Sat. Mar. 5 Alaska 7:30 p.m. Adult Replica Jersey Giveaway
Sun. Mar. 6 Alaska 4:00 p.m. Family Day
Fri. Mar. 18 Idaho 7:30 p.m. Poster Giveaway
Sat. Mar. 19 Idaho 7:30 p.m. Replica Jersey Giveaway
Sun. Mar. 20 Idaho 4:00 p.m. Family Day
Fri. Mar. 25 Victoria 7:30 p.m. "Thunder's Easy Being Green"
Sat. Mar. 26 Victoria 7:30 p.m. "Thunder's Easy Being Green"
Sun. Mar. 27 Victoria 4:00 p.m. Family Day
Wed. Mar. 30 Las Vegas 7:00 p.m. Fan Appreciation Night/ Family Night

*Promotions and dates subject to change
**Giveaways subject to age restrictions

-Written by the StocktonThunder.com-
*Reprinted by Oilers Jambalaya with permission from Stockton Thunder Professional Hockey Club, ECHL. The Stockton Thunder are a proud 'AA' affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers (NHL)*

Two Guys & Hockey Talk NHL News (CLICK PIC FOR LINK)

The Faithful Followers

Oilers Jambalaya is in no way, shape or form associated with the Edmonton Oilers or the Bakersfield Condors. This is a fans blog for fans. We happen to love those teams, so we write about them.