Thunder Signs Rookie Defenseman Nathan Deck

Published on August 4, 2011 under ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today that the team has signed rookie free agent defenseman Nathan Deck. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Deck, 21, enters the professional ranks after skating in 276 career junior games with Prince Albert and Vancouver of the Western Hockey League, scoring 118 points (22g-96a) while totaling 198 penalty minutes.

"We're excited to bring a player with Nathan's attributes to the Thunder blueline," said Thomas. "Through talks with individuals who have coached or played with him, everybody raved about his competitiveness. He can play in every situation and contributes with the little things that his coaches and teammates appreciate at the end of each game."

Last season, the 5-foot-11, 185-pound blueliner served as co-captain for the Raiders and earned the club's "Most Valuable Defenseman" and "Most Inspirational Raider" awards. He totaled a +4 rating with 18 points (2g-16a) and 36 penalty minutes in 60 games.

Deck led Prince Albert's defensemen with a career-high 38 points (7g-31a) in 72 games during the 2008-09 season.

"I'm really excited to sign with a team like Stockton for the next step in my career," said Deck. "Through talks with Matt Thomas and (former Prince Albert teammate and Thunder goaltender) Garrett Zemlak, I've heard nothing but great things about the community, the fan base and crowds. The summer has been that much more exciting as a result and I can't wait to get the season going."

Deck is one of two free agent players signed by the Thunder on the same day, joining rookie forward Jesse Fratkin, and is one of five players to sign with the Thunder during the offseason.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 14, when the Thunder opens the 2011-12 regular season at home against the Colorado Eagles, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The game will be a historic ECHL event to welcome in the Eagles, who will play in their inaugural game after spending the previous eight seasons in the Central Hockey League.

The Thunder are freezing most Season Ticket prices for the 2011-12 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, 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. Individual ticket prices and promotional dates will be announced soon.

For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

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