Stockton Thunder Re-Sign Steve Vanoosten

Steve Vanoosten Re-Signs For 2010-11

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

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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*

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.

Oilers Jambalaya Moves On Up / www.oilersjambalaya.com

Well we finally caved, opened the piggy bank and stepped into the future. Welcome to OilersJambalaya.com.

After much thought and debate we figured what the hell, let's do it.We have expanded over time and we will continue to grow, so the next logical step was to shorten the url. 

We thank you for following us in the past and also into the future as we continue to cover the Edmonton Oilers, OKC Barons and the Stockton Thunder. This is just another step in making this a top notch Oilers website.

The changes are not yet over...

WOoOOOooOoOO!!!! http://www.oilersjambalaya.com/

PS: Let's not forget to change the links and the rss feeds if you have us in your blog rolls.

Oilers Jambalaya / Random Thoughts, Not The Website

This (Oilers Jambalaya - The Random Stuff) is a column that I started when this little blog started up. I only did it a few times (but I liked it) and it kind of faded away for some reason. But what the hell? It's back.

Mmmmmm.... Jambalaya

Oilers Rookie Development Camp is going on right now down at the Clareview Arena till Friday. It goes from 10:00am till 12:00pm. The place gets packed so if you are going, go early. For all the latest news and info regarding the camp, stay tuned to Oilers Jambalaya. Plus we will have a special fans report from guest writer Steve Schulte a little later in the day plus the LIVE tweets from http://twitter.com/_gelsomino.

Magnus Paajarvi Interview From Today

Khabibulin had his court case postponed today. It appears the courts were to busy to proceed with his trial or something like that. It has been rescheduled for 2 weeks from now. If convicted, he could spend up to 30 days in jail. With a delay and other court procedures, it's possible that Khabi might miss training camp if he does have to do the whole 30 days and this does drag out longer. I would expect him to try and plea bargain.

Taylor Hall's number. What is taking so long to decide? I really do think he really waiting for #44 to get traded. I mean, become available. I hope not, it's cursed. He did say a few days ago that he would think about possibly taking either 44 or 91. God I hope he takes 91 (my choice for him is #84. He could easily be the greatest #84 in the history of the NHL) instead of the 44. *fingers crossed*

That rumor that TSN's Ryan Rishaug started is quite the conversation piece today. He thinks that if the Kings land Ilya Kovalchuk (still possible), they might be willing to part with Ryan Smyth. Souray for Smyth is what he suggested. I'll be honest, I'd make that trade right now. I would even include Cogliano. I would love nothing more than to see Ryan come back and be the mentor for the kids and finally wear the captain's C. He deserved it years ago and I believe he has a lot left in that tank of his. BRING BACK SMYTH!

Wow! The Oilers seem hell bent to have some experienced guys down in Oklahoma City for next season. They have been spending money for OKC Barons like crazy and they have only picked up a few guys so far. Just paying Alex Giroux $500,000 and $225,00 for Brad Moran is whacked out. Three quarters of a million dollars for two guys. If only I could hang out with Katz for a day. He must have $10 dollar bills in the bathroom for toilet paper. Unbelievable amounts of wasted money! I hope for the OKC Barons fans sake, these veteran AHL players are worth the cash. Defenceman Jake Taylor was also signed recently for the Barons.

I'm starting to think that Bob Funk jr. and the Barons have no say in the "hockey operations" department. It appears like the Oilers are sorting out their own problems first without considering the fact that the Barons are new and the fans were hungry for anything related to the team. Yes I did say were. The excitement is over. I don't know what they have in store next, but you couldn't beat the hype that a couple of bloggers (OilFieldHockey/CopperandBlue/OilersJambalaya) created a while back. As of this moment they are looking to sell seasons tickets. They do pay for a sponsored link on google to be found.

So here are my questions to the OKC Barons. Why is it taking sooooooooo long to pick the name the mascot winner? (My suggestion was Edmond Von Derrick) Where is your GM? (He's important to build a team) Where is your Head Coach (Kelly Buchberger??) and his Assistants? Where is your pump-up on Twitter and other social media? Where is the fan involvement? How about another live chat?

I have asked the Stockton Thunder if there has been any progress on if they will resign with the Oilers, as their current agreement is expired. So far they tell me they are working on it and they would love to still be apart of the Oilers family. I really hope they continue being apart of the Oilers organization because here at Oilers Jambalaya, we are going to ramp up our coverage of the Stockton Thunder starting this season. So I will keep you posted if an agreement is reached. We hope so.

**Cool new changes at Oilers Jambalaya and over at OilFieldHockey.com are coming soon.

We can't wait for next year to start!

LET'S GO OILERS! LET'S GO BARONS! LET'S GO THUNDER!**

-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Bryan Pitton Attends Oilers Rookie Development Camp

Pitton Gets Oilers Development Camp Invite

07/06/2010 1:26 PM -

Bryan Pitton stops a shot on the opening day of the Edmonton Oilers 2010 Development Camp in Edmonton. (photo by Andy Devlin/EOHC)

Two-year Thunder goaltender looks for next step, joins prospects in Edmonton

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MORE: Edmonton Oilers Development Camp roster
MORE: Full coverage - Edmonton Oilers Development Camp

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers, announced goaltender Bryan Pitton (PITT-in), who has played the last two seasons with the Thunder, is one of 28 players selected by the Oilers to participate in their 2010 Development Camp, from July 6-9 in Edmonton.

The camp, featuring the Oilers top prospects and 18 players drafted by Edmonton in 2009 or 2010, including this year's first overall selection in Taylor Hall, is being conducted with on-ice sessions at Clareview Arena and off-ice workouts at Rexall Place, the Oilers home ice.

Pitton, 22, was selected by the Oilers in the fifth round (133rd overall) in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft and is 18-28-6 with a 3.18 goals-against-average and .901 save percentage in 56 lifetime games with the Thunder.

Last season, Pitton earned two separate recalls directly to Edmonton and left the ECHL on Feb. 1 on a recall to Springfield of the AHL by ranking second in the league with a .921 save percentage. He 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 - a 34-save effort in a 1-0 shootout loss to Victoria (stopped 14 of 16 shooters) on Jan. 30.

The 6-foot-2, 176-pound goaltender broke a Thunder playoff record last year with 49 saves in Game 3 of the National Conference Final, a 1-0 win in triple overtime against the Idaho Steelheads which was the first playoff shutout of his career. He was also twice named Reebok Hockey ECHL Goaltender of the Week (Dec. 21-27 and Jan. 25-31).

The complete roster can be found at http://www.edmontonoilers.com/. Pitton is one of 15 players with experience in a Thunder uniform who have participated in development camps at the NHL level since 2008:

- James Bates (RW) - 2009
- Jordan Bendfeld (D) - 2009
- Sebastien Bisaillon (D) - 2008
- Troy Bodie (RW) - 2008
- Glenn Fisher (G) - 2008
- Igor Gongalsky (RW) - 2009 (Buffalo Sabres)
- Stephane Goulet (LW) - 2008
- Adam Huxley (LW) - 2008
- Ryan O'Marra (C) - 2008
- Geoff Paukovich (C) - 2008, 2009
- Andrew Perugini (G) - 2009
- Bryan Pitton (G) - 2009, 2010
- Les Reaney (C) - 2008
- Tyler Spurgeon (C) - 2008
- Cody Wild (D) - 2009


ABOUT THE ECHL
- The ECHL celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2007-08 and is the third-longest tenured professional hockey league behind only the National Hockey League and the American Hockey League. ECHL began in 1988-89 with five teams in four states and has grown to be a coast-to-coast league with 19 teams in 14 states and British Columbia in 2010-11.
- 443 players have played in the NHL after playing in the ECHL including a record 53 in 2008-09. 35 ECHL players made their NHL debut in 2009-10.
- ECHL had a record 78 players on NHL opening-day rosters, surpassing the 71 from a year ago and marking the seventh year in a row that there have been over 50 former ECHL players on opening-day rosters.
- Every ECHL team has an affiliation with an NHL team and the league has affiliations with 28 of the 30 NHL teams, marking the 13th consecutive season that the league has had affiliations with at least 20 teams in the NHL.

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/.

*Reprinted with permission by Oilers Jambalaya. Stockton Thunder is the ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers*

Stockton Thunder / ECHL Ticket Department of the Year

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

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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.

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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)

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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*

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

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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/

CLICK HERE TO READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE

*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

All-Star Clarke Joins Season Ending Roster

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

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VIDEO: Matt Thomas on acquiring Aaron Clarke

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*

Stockton Thunder Promotional / Giveaway 2010/11 Schedule

Promotion, Giveaway Lineup for 10-11 is Here

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

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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.

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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)

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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)*

The Stockton Thunder / A Season In Review DVD

The Stockton Thunder will have a DVD coming out soon portraying the 2009/10 season highlights. Here is the preview for the DVD. It looks great doesn't it?

Stay tuned to Oilers Jambalaya and OilFieldHockey.com for more great news on this DVD.

"A preview, coming soon to DVD, ThunderVision takes you on a thrill ride of the entire 2009-10 hockey season and Kelly Cup Playoffs - complete with highlights, exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and more!"

*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)*

Stockton Thunder Fan Contest / Enter Now

''How All Out Are You?'' Let Us Know!

05/24/2010 4:26 PM - Contest winners get VIP treatment through StocktonThunder.com, all entries eligible for game-worn Thunder jersey from 09-10
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GET YOUR SUBMISSION IN: CLICK HERE TO ENTER

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," has launched an online contest titled "How All Out Are You?" through the team's official website, http://www.stocktonthunder.com/, inviting Thunder fans to get creative and show their Thunder allegiance.

Where were you when Ryan Constant was mobbed by his teammates in triple OT? What does it mean to you?

(photo by George Steckler)

The contest, already underway, awards a handful of prizes to lucky winners with the most unique, remarkable and exhilarating story of the season. Among the giveaways will be a grand prize which features a V.I.P. experience for a night, topped off by luxury suite and pizza party accommodations at Stockton Arena at a Thunder home game in 2010-11.

Every submission is automatically entered to win an authentic, game-worn Thunder player jersey from the 2009-10 season. Fans can enter by accessing the contest link at the home page of StocktonThunder.com, where they will be asked to show their spirit by written submission, video, or photo.

Fans are asked to tag their submissions on Twitter, YouTube and Flickr with the tag, #thunderallout.

Fans may also submit on the Thunder's Facebook page, www.facebook.com/StocktonThunder

Whether it's a story of how you celebrated each Thunder playoff victory, a photo of you and your favorite player, or a video of a road trip you went on to show off your loyalty and passion for Thunder hockey, virtually any creative expression of fandom is welcome to be shared and is eligible for the contest.

The runner-up will receive first prize honors which include six tickets for a Thunder home game in 2010-11 special "on-the-bench" access to view pre-game warm-ups before the game and an invitation to drop the ceremonial puck before the game's opening faceoff.

The second prize winner receives six tickets to a Thunder home game in 2010-11 and a private, "meet-and-greet" with a Thunder player of their choice before the game while the winner of the third prize receives an authentic game-worn jersey from the 09-10 season.Submissions will be shared on the Thunder website and winners will be announced on July 12.

The Thunder recently toppled the 30-win plateau for the third time in five seasons, advanced to the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season and completed their deepest playoff run in club history - their first trip to the Conference Finals - where they were defeated by the #1 Idaho Steelheads, 4-2 in a best-of-seven series.

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 Stockton Thunder Professional Hockey Club, ECHL. The Stockton Thunder are a proud 'AA' affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers (NHL)*

Stockton Thunder / What A Season

WHAT A SEASON!

05/13/2010 6:04 PM

(photo by George Steckler)

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The Stockton Thunder salutes and thanks all loyal hockey fans of Northern California for what was yet another memorable season in 2009-10, climaxing with the longest playoff run in franchise history!

Stay tuned into StocktonThunder.com for updates and surprises throughout the entire offseason, including the 2010-11 schedule, free agent signings and more!

GET ON-BOARD: 2010-11 Season Tickets
GET SWAG: Thunder merchandise
VIDEO: Season highlights and interviews, on-demand!
AUDIO: Recaps of the season and podcasts at your fingertips

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League and Springfield Falcons of the American 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//.

Written by the Stockton Thunder

Stockton Thunder Lose Game 6 / The Season Is Over / A Game Recap

GAME 6 RECAP: Idaho 7 - Stockton 5

05/11/2010 10:46 PM

THAT'S FINAL
Longest playoff run in Thunder history ends in Game 6 elimination, 7-5, Idaho advances to Kelly Cup Final

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FINAL STATS: BOX SCORE
AUDIO: Game highlights

STOCKTON, Calif. - John-Scott Dickson recorded a natural hat trick to help the Idaho Steelheads eliminate the Stockton Thunder, who nearly erased a three-goal deficit in the final 12 minutes of play, in a 7-5 final in Game 6 of the National Conference Final of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs, before 4,200 fans at Qwest Arena on Tuesday.

Idaho, looking to claim their third Kelly Cup title, won the Conference Final series in six games, 4-2 and advanced to their third appearance in the Kelly Cup Final in the last six seasons. The game ended the longest playoff run in Thunder history (its first trip to the Conference Final) and closed the second straight season that Stockton played into the month of May.

The Thunder, who originally claimed a 2-0 lead before Idaho's four-goal rally in the second period, were helped out by goals from Steve Vanoosten, Jason Pitton, Garet Hunt, Matt Marquardt and Kelly Czuy.

STOCKTON VS. IDAHO - NATIONAL CONFERENCE FINALS
Game 1: Stockton 2 at Idaho 4
Game 2: Stockton 0 at Idaho 4
Game 3: Idaho 0 at Stockton 1
Game 4: Idaho 2 at Idaho 7
Game 5: Idaho 6 at Stockton 3
Game 6: Stockton 5 at Idaho 7
Idaho wins series, 4-2

"It stings, no question about it; we had a feeling coming into the playoffs that we had the horses to deliver a championship to the city of Stockton this year," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "Idaho got some timely goals and were able to capitalize on our mistakes. Yet, we come out of this playoff run with our heads held high as an organization. We have the best fans, best building, best ownership and atmosphere that anybody looking to advance their career in hockey can benefit from. Our future is bright."

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Garet Hunt personified a resilient Thunder effort, tying the game, 3-3 after Idaho erased a two-goal deficit in the second period. (photo by Steve Conner)

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The Thunder roared out to their two-goal lead after the first period, maintaining control on a physical attack that produced an array of high-quality scoring chances on goaltender Rejean Beauchemin, who started for the second straight game with Richard Bachman up to the AHL on emergency recall.Vanoosten's power-play goal put the Thunder on the board with 5:39 into the game, taking Oren Eizenman's feed and ripping a one-timer to the back of the net, from the high slot for his second goal of the postseason.

Pitton converted off an Idaho turnover to boost the cushion to 2-0 with two minutes left in the period, firing a slapshot fro the right circle that was going wide of the net, but ricocheted off Idaho defenseman Guillaume Monast and past Beauchemin.

Dickson then single-handedly boosted Idaho to the lead with a natural hat trick in the second period, starting with a rebound goal at the left circle with 3:48 elapsed. Just 1:57 later, his rebound (goal originally credited to Evan Barlow) through a pile-up at the top of the crease fluttered over a fallen Andrew Perugini that tied the score, 2-2.

Then at 9:29, Dickson picked the top right corner of the net on a snap shot from the mid-slot, completing the hat trick after he corralled a Marty Flichel outlet pass.

The Thunder fought back to knot the score, 3-3, on Hunt's third goal of the playoffs with 7:23 left in the period. After Hunt was pushed into Beauchemin, he regained his ground, took Pitton's pass from the left corner and roofed a one-timer from the top of the crease.

Yet, Idaho claimed the lead again on a Mark McCutcheon rebound with 3:35 left in the period after Perugini turned away Mark Derlago's snap shot at the right circle.

Idaho then embarked on a two-goal rush in a span of 3:20 to assume a commanding 6-3 lead early in the final period off two outnumbered attack chances. Kevin DeVirgilio converted off a Thunder turnover and Evan Barlow's cross-ice pass when he slammed in a one-timer from the left circle with 1:30 elapsed.

Derlago's second goal of the series and fifth of the playoffs pushed the Thunder into a 6-3 hole with 15:10 remaining on a wrist shot at the right circle, closing a 3-on-1 break.

The Thunder, attempting a furious rally to save the game, called timeout after the goal and got momentum back in their favor on Marquardt's snap shot from off the rush with 12:10 left in the game, closing the gap to 6-4.

After a penalty kill on a Czuy boarding penalty, it was Czuy, himself who got the Thunder back in the game on a power-play goal, down 6-5, with 2:21 left in the game on a one-timer at the goal mouth that beat Beauchemin through the five-hole.

The Thunder pulled Perugini for an extra attacker and after several chances in the Idaho zone, the Steelheads closed the series with Flichel's empty net goal with 12 seconds left.

Beauchemin picked up the win with 24 saves. Perugini, who was making his first start in net since Game 2 of the series, closed his postseason record at 7-5 with a 37-save effort.

NOTES: The Thunder scratched Riley Emmerson (inactive list), Brett Hemingway (inactive list), Trevor Hunt (inactive list), Igor Gongalsky (injury, day-to-day) and Justin DaCosta (healthy) ... Idaho outshot Stockton, 44-29 ... the Thunder power-play converted perfectly, 3-for-3 in the game after amassing just four man advantage goals in six previous playoff road games ... Stockton scored an ECHL leading 62 goals in its postseason run (at the time of its exit), a new Thunder playoff record ... James Bates now ranks as the Thunder all-time playoff scoring leader with 30 points (9g-21a) in 29 games ... Eizenman finished as the Thunder scoring leader with 19 points (3g-16a) in 15 games in this year's postseason.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League and Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League, and 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. 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//.

THREE STARS:
1. IDH - 15 John-Scott Dickson
2. IDH - 20 Evan Barlow
3. IDH - 16 Marty Flichel

Written by the Stockton Thunder

History Will Be Made / Stockton Thunder

Stockton Thunder Lose A Late Game Thriller / A Game Recap

GAME 5 RECAP: Idaho 6 - Stockton 3

05/08/2010 9:23 PM

TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT
Disallowed goal, Flichel's two goals sends Thunder to 3-2 series deficit

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FINAL STATS: BOX SCORE
VIDEO: Highlights and postgame locker room reaction
AUDIO: Game highlights


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Idaho Steelheads used a pair of goals from Marty Flichel in a three-goal, second period effort to outlast the Stockton Thunder, 6-3 in Game 5 of the National Conference Final of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs before 4,521 fans at Stockton Arena on Saturday.

The Thunder, who trailed 4-3 late in the game and nearly tied it with 3:30 left in regulation, had a one-timer goal by Oren Eizenman waved off. Eizenman fired a shot from the high slot that appeared to beat Rejean Beauchemin under the crossbar with the puck zipping out. But the ruling, which interpreted the puck hit the crossbar, negated the goal.

Stockton, who fell 3-2 in the series, now faces elimination for the first time in the postseason. Colin Hemingway, James Bates and Matt Robinson scored for the Thunder. Beauchemin took the win in net with 13 saves, who made his first start of the playoffs in place of injured goaltender Richard Bachman.

STOCKTON VS. IDAHO - NATIONAL CONFERENCE FINALS
Game 1: Stockton 2 at Idaho 4
Game 2: Stockton 0 at Idaho 4
Game 3: Idaho 0 at Stockton 1
Game 4: Idaho 2 at Idaho 7
Game 5: Idaho 6 at Stockton 3
Game 6: Stockton at Idaho - Tuesday, May 11 - 6:10 p.m. (Qwest Arena)
Game 7: Stockton at Idaho - Wednesday, May 12 - 6:10 p.m. (Qwest Arena) *
* If necessary

"We feel pretty strongly that Oren's shot hit the back bar, but unfortunately the final decision doesn't rest in our hands," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "It's a moot point now, so we need to move forward and win our next game. That's all we're thinking. Our backs are against the wall but we have a lot of fight left in us. I wasn't too pleased with our execution, but we still had a chance to win the hockey game. That's the positive thing about all of this. I know it, we know it and we're putting it behind us."

Bates got the Thunder on the board with his third goal of the playoffs at 7:56 of the first period, taking Matt Robinson's feed and sliding a backhanded deke through the five-hole of Rejean Beauchemin.

James Bates posted his fifth multi-point game of the playoffs.

(photo by George Steckler)

Idaho responded with a Flichel power-play goal, knotting the score, 1-1 with 6:16 left in the period when Flichel wired a slap shot to the upper right corner of the net after corralling an outlet pass from Dustin Friesen.

A wild, five-goal outburst in the second period combined by both teams had Idaho coming out with a 4-3 edge after 40 minutes. Beginning a stretch of a four goals in a span of 1:15, Mark Derlago fired a slap shot past Bryan Pitton from the left circle, giving the 2-1 lead to Idaho with 9:11 left in the period.

Brothers Colin and Brett Hemingway connected on a give-and-go play just 25 seconds later, with a snap shot by Colin from the left circle tying the score at 2-2.

Guillaume Monast's drive from the right point put Idaho ahead, 3-2 at 12:14 but the Thunder countered on the ensuing shift, 18 seconds later. James Bates found Robinson in the slot, who whistled a wrist shot past Beauchemin's blocker to tie the game, 3-3.

Flichel's second goal of the game restored Idaho's lead at 4-3, burying a one-timer from the slot on a pass by Derlago from behind the net.

The Thunder then missed on several close-range chances, including a J.F. Caudron snap shot from off the rush at the left circle, and a rebound at the left side of the crease that Robinson missed to an open net, wide from a tight angle.

Eizenman's one-timer that beat Beauchemin, but went to review, stopped play for several minutes. Just 2:08 later, Evan Barlow converted off a turnover at center ice and put Idaho up 5-3 on a snap shot from the left circle.

The Thunder pulled Bryan Pitton for an extra attacker and following a series of close-range chances, Mark McCutcheon spun a loose puck from the left boards into the empty net, from nearly 180 feet to close the score at 6-3 with 18.9 seconds left.

Pitton took his first loss of the postseason with 26 saves.

NOTES: The Thunder scratched Riley Emmerson (inactive list), Garet Hunt (healthy), Trevor Hunt (inactive list), Chris D'Alvise (injury, day-to-day) and Kelly Czuy (injury, day-to-day) ... Idaho outshot Stockton, 32-16 ... the Thunder were held to an 0-for-4 clip on the power-play ... Stockton took only its fourth loss in the last 14 lifetime playoff games at home ... among those in attendance were ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna and retired NHL referee Rob Shick.

The Thunder, looking to stay alive in the postseason, return to play for Game 6 of the series against the Steelheads at Qwest Arena on Tuesday, May 11 at 6:10 p.m. The game can be heard and viewed online exclusively at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B2 Networks (audio is free of charge).

Tickets for Thunder home playoff games are available by calling (209) 373-1700 or by visiting www.StocktonTickets.com.

The Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, has led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew 223,854 fans to Stockton Arena in 2008-09. 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/.

THREE STARS:
1. IDH - 16 Marty Flichel
2. STK - 28 James Bates
3. IDH - 10 Mark Derlago

Written by the StocktonThunder.com

Stockton Thunder Win In Triple Overtime / A Game Recap

GAME 3 RECAP: Stockton 1 - Idaho 0 (3OT)

05/05/2010 11:48 PM

CONSTANT HEROES
Pitton's record 49-save effort, Constant's goal caps triple-OT thriller, gets Thunder back to 2-1 series deficit

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FINAL STATS: BOX SCORE
VIDEO: Highlights and postgame locker room reaction
AUDIO: Game highlights


STOCKTON, Calif. - Ryan Constant ended the longest game in Stockton Thunder history with a power-play goal from the high slot, 36 seconds into triple overtime, to lift the Thunder to a thrilling 1-0 marathon victory over the Idaho Steelheads in Game 3 of the National Conference Final of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs at Stockton Arena on Wednesday.


The Thunder edged their way back in the best-of-seven series, trailing Idaho 2-1 and goaltender Bryan Pitton, making his first start of the postseason, broke a Thunder playoff record with 49 saves while earning the first playoff shutout in Thunder history and the first of his playoff career.

He outdueled Richard Bachman of Idaho, who stopped 36 shots and had a shutout streak of 172:07 in the series snapped by Constant's goal. The overtime win was the third of the playoffs for Stockton, who ran their record to 3-0 in the OT stages.

STOCKTON VS. IDAHO - NATIONAL CONFERENCE FINALS
Game 1: Stockton 2 at Idaho 4
Game 2: Stockton 0 at Idaho 4
Game 3: Idaho 0 at Stockton 1 (3OT)
Game 4: Idaho at Stockton - Friday, May 7 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 5: Idaho at Stockton - Saturday, May 8 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 6: Stockton at Idaho - Tuesday, May 11 - 6:10 p.m. (Qwest Arena) *
Game 7: Stockton at Idaho - Wednesday, May 12 - 6:10 p.m. (Qwest Arena) *
* If necessary

"What a character win," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "Our resiliency really came through when we needed it most. Constant's goal came as a result of simple hockey needed into a lengthy game like that - getting a screen in front of their goaltender. Bryan was remarkable in net as well - he made the basic saves all night and came through with some big stops when we needed them."

Bryan Pitton recorded the first playoff shutout in Thunder history with another postseason record - 49 saves in one single playoff game.

(photo by George Steckler)

Both teams battled through the first period with the Thunder edging Idaho in shots, 11-10. Pitton made his first big save of the game on a Marty Flichel re-direction at the base of the left circle and Bachman countered with stops on a Matt Robinson snapper in the first shift of the game and Steve Vanoosten's one-timer from the right circle with nearly six minutes remaining.

The Thunder had a chance to grab the lead in the second period on a wide open chance at the left circle for J.F. Caudron, but his rebound zipped off the right goal post with Bachman diving to get back in position.

Idaho outshot the Thunder, 8-3 in the third period and 6-4 in the first overtime, with Pitton making a key save on Mark McCutcheon's wrist shot from the left circle.

Bachman faced a close-range redirection attempt by Igor Gongalsky in the opening minutes of the overtime period, but turned away the chance from between the hash marks with a stop at the glove side.

Idaho cranked up the pressure, outshooting the Thunder 18-8 in the second overtime period, but failing to capitalize on two power-play chances. Pitton preserved the game with a glove save on a Dustin Friesen backhander from between the circles at the middle of the period.

Flichel was whistled for a tripping penalty for taking down Jason Pitton behind the Idaho net with 1:19 left in the double overtime, setting up the game-winning power-play.

After the Thunder won the opening faceoff of the third overtime and worked the puck in deep, Robinson's feed from the left boards found Constant positioned at the high slot while Jason Pitton set a screen in front of Bachman.

Constant unleashed a wrist shot that beat Bachman past the blocker side, sending the Thunder flying off the bench with the win and Stockton Arena into pandemonium.

Idaho was kept to an 0-for-6 effort on the power-play.

NOTES: The Thunder scratched Riley Emmerson (inactive list), Brett Hemingway (inactive list), Trevor Hunt (inactive list), Colin Hemingway (healthy) and Kelly Czuy (injury, day-to-day) ... the game surpassed the previous record game in Stockton playoff history - Game 3 of the 2007 National Conference Quarterfinals, won by Idaho, 2-1 at 8:06 of double overtime ... Constant's goal snapped an 0-for-15 drought for the Thunder on the power-play, in the series ... the Thunder improved to 4-1 at home in the postseason and has won nine of the last 12 games at home in Kelly Cup Playoff history ... the game was the longest 0-0 game in ECHL history before Constant's game winner.

Both teams return to play in Game 4 of the series at Stockton Arena on Friday, May 7 at 7:30 p.m. The game can be heard and viewed online exclusively at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B2 Networks (audio is free of charge).

Tickets for Thunder home playoff games are available by calling (209) 373-1700 or by visiting http://www.stocktontickets.com/

The Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, has led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew 223,854 fans to Stockton Arena in 2008-09. 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/.

THREE STARS:
1. STK - 31 Bryan Pitton
2. STK - 22 Ryan Constant
3. IDH - 31 Richard Bachman

Written by the StocktonThunder.com