Inaugural roster set as team prepares for Saturday's opening night

October 20, 2005 - ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder has announced their inaugural 2005-06 opening night roster with two goaltenders and 17 skaters, in preparation for the first season ever in the San Joaquin Valley, starting this Saturday.

"We can't wait for the puck to be dropped on Saturday night," said Thunder team president Dan Chapman. "Chris Cichocki has done an excellent job with recruiting and throughout training camp, and the Thunder is more than ready to get started."

Led by Head Coach Chris Cichocki, three former Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies return to the team in a new place, headlined by goaltenders Jake Moreland - the Thunder's first signee; Jeff Weber, and forward Aaron Foster. Moreland and Weber appeared in a Boardwalk Bullies uniform last season, while Foster, who last played for Atlantic City in 2003-04, returns for his second stint after suiting up for the Dayton Bombers in 2004-05.

Everybody else joins the squad for the first time. Among the newcomers is defensemen Geno Parrish, an ECHL All-Star in 2002-03, whose 66 points in 2003-04 with the Greensboro Generals finished third among all defensemen in scoring.

Parrish is also joined by defenseman Dean Stork, who garnered playing experience under current Thunder head coach Chris Cichocki from 2000-04 in Arkansas and Cincinnati. Brian Escobedo, Tony Johnson, Dave McCulloch, and veteran Jason Metcalfe round out the blueline.

The Thunder will also be headlined up-front by a myriad of scorers and playmakers along with Foster, including forwards Dominic Soucy, Casey Bartzen, Nathan Martz and Joel Irwin. Adding to the frontline mix are Derek Campbell, Noah Whyte, Mike Lalonde, Vin Hellemeyer, Jason Kostadine and Phoenix Coyotes prospect Landon Bathe.

In addition, the Thunder has also announced the trade of forward Mike Kiesman to the Columbia Inferno for financial considerations. Bartzen will begin the season on the seven-day injured reserve list with a groin injury.

Stockton opens the 2005-06 campaign Saturday, October 22 on the road against the Fresno Falcons at 7pm, and host Fresno in the Thunder's inaugural home opener on December 3. Saturday's game at Fresno's Save Mart Center is expected to be a sellout, which includes a tourbus caravan of Thunder fans expected to make the trip.

Saturday's game can be heard live on the internet at www.stocktonthunder.com, and can be viewed as a simulcast at the Thunder's website for a $6.00 charge. Windows Media Player, version 9 or higher, is required to view the webcast.

Season tickets for the upcoming Thunder season are on sale now. Tickets for the home opener can currently be purchased as part of a full or mini season package. For more information on season tickets, mini packages, merchandise, or other information, please call the Stockton Thunder at (209) 948-3322 or visit www.stocktonthunder.com.



ECHL Stories from October 20, 2005


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