Nailers Re-Sign Brett Stern
August 3, 2016 - ECHL (ECHL)
Wheeling Nailers News Release
WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, are excited to announce their second player signing of the 2016 offseason. Wheeling has re-signed defensemen Brett Stern to an ECHL contract.
Stern, 24, had a remarkable rookie season, as he was the only Nailer who played in all 72 regular season games, as well as all 26 games during the Kelly Cup Playoffs. While his defensive play is one of his biggest strengths, Brett also contributed to the offense during 2015-16, accumulating seven goals and 24 points in the regular season, before adding five more points in the postseason. The Lino Lakes, Minnesota native had one of his most memorable games on November 10th, when he netted his first career goal, then snapped a 5-5 tie to cap off a thrilling comeback win for Wheeling over Cincinnati on Education Day, in front of 5,511 fans at WesBanco Arena. Additionally, Stern was responsible for the primary assist on Riley Brace's overtime goal in game seven against Reading in the Eastern Conference Semifinal Series. Brett was very popular with his teammates and the fans, as he won the Project Best Player's Player Award and the Riesbeck's Food Markets Fan Choice Player of the Year Award.
"Brett Stern had a great rookie season, as he became a pillar on defense, while being able to play in every scenario," said Nailers Head Coach Jeff Christian. "He has a terrific attitude, is well-liked in the dressing room, and works very hard in the community, as he developed a strong connection with the fans. I am excited to see him continue to develop this season."
Prior to turning pro, Stern played college hockey at Minnesota State University - Mankato, where he was an extremely reliable blueliner, as he appeared in every game during his junior and senior seasons. Brett's most productive season came as a senior, when he found the back of the net three times, while recording eight points. Over the course of his four years with the Mavericks, Stern totaled six goals, 18 assists, and 24 points in 137 games. Stern was part of WCHA Tournament Champion teams in 2014 and 2015, as Minnesota State University - Mankato reached the NCAA's National Tournament in three consecutive seasons.
"I am excited to be back in Wheeling to make another run at a championship and take care of some unfinished business in a Nailers jersey," Stern said. "Last year, I tried to be a sponge, and now that I know how to go at things, I hope to be better and faster this year. The place to be is Wheeling - we have great teammates, a great staff, and great fans. The fan base doubled in size as the season went along, and we were more pumped going into games, knowing the crowds would be packed."
Brett Stern and the Eastern Conference Champion Wheeling Nailers will begin the 2016-17 season at WesBanco Arena on October 15th against the Brampton Beast, with opening face-off scheduled for 7:05.
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