Falcons Add to the Blueline

September 10, 2004 - ECHL (ECHL)
Fresno Falcons News Release


Fresno, Calif. - The Fresno Falcons have signed defensemen Matt O'Dette and Charles Simard to contracts for the 2004-05 season.

Originally drafted by the Florida Panthers in the 7th Round of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft, O'Dette played his entire rookie year with the ECHL's Roanoke Express before moving up to the American Hockey League. He accumulated 23 points (9g-14a) and 619 penalty minutes over five full seasons as a tough, stay-at-home defenseman with the St. John Flames and Quebec Citadelles. The 6'5", 228 lb. Ontario native then suffered a season-ending injury early in 2002-03 when he was with the Hamilton Bulldogs, which required the entirety of 2003-04 to rehabilitate.

"Matt brings a wealth of experience to our backline, and he's excited to get back on the ice after being out last year," said Falcons General Manager Blaine Moore. "He's big and he's physical and to score goals opposing forwards are going to have to pay a steep price."

Joining O'Dette as a new member of the Falcons' defensive corps is Charles Simard, who played in the Swiss National League the past two seasons after a four-year career at Union College. In contrast to O'Dette's traditional defensive style, Simard will look to pick his spots offensively in addition to tending to his own zone. As a junior in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, Simard averaged more than a point per game from his blueline position.

Added Moore, "Having the ability to play in one of the top leagues in Europe like the Swiss National League says a lot about Charles' talent-level, and we expect him to be running our power play. He's an exciting d-man who can join the rush and still play solidly in our own zone."

Fresno will battle the Bakersfield Condors in a home-and-home pre-season series on Oct. 15 and 16 before opening the 2004-05 ECHL regular season on Oct. 22 against the Las Vegas Wranglers at Save Mart Center. Full season ticket packages and Flex Packs are on sale beginning as low as $42. For complete ticket information, please visit the Falcons website at www.fresnofalcons.com/tickets.html or call the Falcons front office at (559) 485-PUCK (7825).



ECHL Stories from September 10, 2004


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