Gorillas re-up with 2008-09 CHL Man of the Year
May 18, 2009 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Amarillo Gorillas News Release
Amarillo, TX 5/18/09 - It was mid-summer before the Amarillo Gorillas made their first player signing last season.
Under Head Coach Brian Pellerin in 2009-10, the Gorillas franchise wasted no time in re-signing a staple of the Texas Panhandle community.
Austin Sutter, who captured the 2008-09 CHL Man of the Year award (given to the player who exemplifies the strongest leadership qualities both on and off the ice), has signed with the Gorillas for the 2009-10 season. In addition to skating at his usual wing position, Sutter will serve as a player-assistant to Pellerin during campaign as well.
Sutter, who has skated in 180 consecutive games for the Gorillas, had a dynamic end to the 2008-09 CHL schedule. During his final 13 games, the Red Deer, Alberta native managed 15 points, including two four-point outbursts and his first career professional hat trick in Amarillo's final game of the season 3/21/09 against Rocky Mountain.
"Austin is a valuable member of this community and the Gorillas hockey team," said Pellerin. "He is a hard worker who will serve the franchise well both on the ice and off the ice in the future."
The 5-10, 190-pound fourth-year professional earned the title of assistant captain for the club in 2008-09, en route to posting 37 points in 64 games. He excelled under Pellerin, netting 24 points during the 31 games the former Gorilla was behind the bench. Off the ice, Sutter continues to help out with various hockey camps and activities in the Amarillo area.
"I am excited to return to the Amarillo area for the 2009-10 season," said Sutter. "I'm looking forward to helping out the team in the front office both with player recruitment and fan relations in order to make the Gorillas more successful in both areas."
The Gorillas are the second CHL team Sutter has suited up for in his career. The forward played three games with Bossier-Shreveport in 2006-07 before being acquired by Amarillo. Since then, Sutter ranks among all-time franchise leaders in games played, consecutive games played, shorthanded points, and points. In addition, the former Powell River King (BCHL) and Minnesota-State Mankato (NCAA) player made his goals count last season-three of his 15 goals were game winners (.200), the highest percentage of any Gorilla with at least five goals in 2008-09.
The AMARILLO GORILLAS are now renewing season tickets for the 2009-10 season in âThe Jungle'! Renew your tickets today by calling (806) 242-PUCK (7825) and get a discount if paid in full by the beginning of Jule. Special deals on new season ticket holder packages are also available.
Central Hockey League Stories from May 18, 2009
- Gorillas re-up with 2008-09 CHL Man of the Year - Amarillo Gorillas
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