Jackals Announce Return Of Three For 2009-2010
Published on August 13, 2009 under ECHL (ECHL)
Elmira Jackals News Release
The Elmira Jackals, proud member of the ECHL, are pleased to announce the return of defensemen Wes Cunningham and Joe Grimaldi and forward Colton Yellow Horn to Elmira for the 2009-2010 season.
Wes Cunningham rejoins the team after leading all Jackals defenseman in scoring in 2008-2009. As a result of his success, Cunningham was named the team's Rookie of the Year. The Dresden, ONT native notched ten goals and 28 assists and had a +3 in his first ECHL and professional season, after spending five seasons in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Cunningham also played one game for the Norfolk Admirals of the American Hockey League (AHL) last season.
"Wes has a bright future ahead of him and we are glad to have him back in a Jackals uniform. He adds a lot of skill to our blue line," Elmira Jackals Head Coach Steve Martinson said.
Rejoining Cunningham on the blue line is Joe Grimaldi. The former Nebraska-Omaha Maverick will begin his third season with the Jackals after totaling ten points (2g-8a) in 2008-2009 with Elmira. Grimaldi also totaled 121 penalty minutes last season, garnering 101 with Elmira and 20 in a three game stint with the Cincinnati Cyclones. Grimaldi's season was cut short by a broken ankle, as he was able to play in just 35 games last year. However, Grimaldi looks to rebound from the injury and make an impact with the Jackals once again.
"Joe is a tough competitor and keeps the opponent honest," Martinson said. "I like his hard hitting style."
Colton Yellow Horn had success in his first ECHL season in 2008-2009, scoring 11 points (5g-6a) in just 24 games with the Jackals. The Brocket, ALTA native came to Elmira after putting up astounding numbers as an amateur in the Western Hockey League (WHL), including 97 points (48g-49a) with the Tri-City Americans in 2007-2008.
Martinson said, "We expect a big offensive burst from Colton this season. He put up great point totals in juniors. He will add offense to our lineup."
Fans can watch Cunningham, Grimaldi, Yellow Horn, and the rest of the Jackals skate this season by purchasing tickets at the First Arena Box Office, or by calling (607) 734-7825 (PUCK). The preseason begins October 9, and the regular season commences on October 16, when the Jackals host the Cincinnati Cyclones in a rematch of last season's American Conference Semifinals.
ECHL Stories from August 13, 2009
- Chiefs Add to Front Office Staff - Johnstown Chiefs
- Checkers Extend New York Rangers Affiliation - Charlotte Checkers
- Florida Will Play Division Rival Gwinnett in a Pair of Practice Games - Florida Everblades
- Jackals Announce Return Of Three For 2009-2010 - Elmira Jackals
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