Fan Favorite Collins Announces Retirement From Hockey
October 12, 2009 - ECHL (ECHL)
Wheeling Nailers News Release
WHEELING, WV - One of the highest scoring players in Wheeling Nailers history is stepping away from the game. Sean Collins has announced his retirement due to personal reasons.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed all my time in Wheeling and consider myself always a Wheeling Nailer," Collins said. "As tough as it is to walk away from the game, I know its gonna be even harder to leave Wheeling."
Collins skated for the Nailers for three seasons from 2005-2008 racking up 208 points on 69 goals and 139 assists. Last year he skated for a team in Finland and later with Tulsa in the Central League. He finishes his career 4th all-time in Nailers history in points trailing only Darren Schwartz, Tim Roberts and Steve Gibson.
"I am glad I was able to retire as a member of the Nailers and will continue to be part of the Nailers Nation," Collins continued. "Thanks for all the great memories."
In the 21st Century no Wheeling player scored more points than Collins. Nailers President Jim Brooks gave a nice tribute to one of the most popular players in Nailers history. "In our business, we are fortunate to meet a lot of great people and Sean is one of the greatest," Brooks said. "Sean was a great ambassador for the Nailers to the Wheeling community throughout his playing career here."
"He is an example of the kind of players we have the history of attracting and continue to search for - high quality both on and off the ice," Brooks added. "We and the entire community will miss Sean and thank him for his loyalty."
The University of New Hampshire product put up impressive numbers upon hitting the professional scene in 2005-06 as he scored 27 goals and added 49 assists to lead the Nailers. He posted identical numbers the following year. He had two AHL call-ups in 2007-08 but still led Wheeling in scoring in his 55 games in the ECHL with 15 goals and 41 assists.
Originally a 9th round selection of the Colorado Avalanche in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, the speedy left-handed shooter scored 77 goals and 96 assists in his four year career with the UNH Wildcats.
Most points with Wheeling (career)
Darren Schwartz - 262
Tim Roberts - 230
Steve Gibson - 220
Sean Collins - 208
Derek DeCosty - 203
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