Gorillas make another addition to 2008-09 squad
July 24, 2008 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Amarillo Gorillas News Release
Amarillo, TX 7/24/08 - The Amarillo Gorillas Thursday were proud to announce the signing of forward John Hooks II for the 2008-09 season.
Hooks, 26, becomes the third player signed by Coach Tom Coolen for the upcoming season. He will join forward Brian Bicek and goaltender Simon Nielsen as Gorillas signed under Coolen's watch.
"I watched John in Germany last year. He's a guy that comes highly recommended to me by other coaches," said Coolen. "John's a big, strong winger, and likes to grind it out in the corners and create space for his teammates."
The 6'1", 215-pound product of Browns Mills, New Jersey skated in 99 games during his junior career with the Springfield (IL) Junior Blues and the Springfield (MO) Spirit. During that time, he scored 22 goals and amassed 26 assists while picking up 176 penalty minutes.
After his successful junior career, Hooks moved on to play NCAA hockey at Bentley College, where he played in 55 games over three years with the Falcons. Most recently, Hooks played in Germany, scoring four points and adding 41 penalty minutes while suiting up for the Schwenningen Wild Wings.
"John is a promising young player whom we are excited to welcome to Amarillo," said Gorillas Owner Randy Sanders. "He is a strong player that will fit into our style perfectly and we are confident that his abilities will serve the Gorillas well as the team moves forward."
Hooks' stint in Amarillo will be his first playing professional hockey in North America. The forward played extensively in Europe as a youth before moving back to the United States to begin his junior career. He was originally born in Frankfurt, Germany.
"Amarillo Gorillas: Guaranteed Fun!" Enjoy all the benefits of becoming an Amarillo Gorillas season ticket holder, including pre-game meetings with Coach Coolen, merchandise discounts, and more! Gorillas season tickets are available by calling (806) 242-PUCK (7825) or by visiting the Gorillas office at 1934 Civic Circle in Amarillo.
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