Modesto Native Sanders, Thunder Agree to Terms

Published on July 21, 2007 under ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, the ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and American Hockey League's Springfield Falcons, has agreed to terms with rookie forward Drew Sanders, Thunder head coach Chris Cichocki announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Drew fits the mold of a forward with character and who works hard each and every shift, so it's a pleasure to find a player that fits his qualities right in our own backyard," said Cichocki. "I have no doubt he'll do everything in his power to become an asset for our organization."

Sanders, a Modesto, Calif. native, joins the Thunder after a four-year (2003-07) college-hockey career at Sacred Heart University (NCAA), appearing in 129 career games for the Pioneers while scoring 26 career points (5g-21a) with 82 penalty minutes.

The 24-year old scored a career-high 10 points (2g-8a) with a +3 rating while appearing in all 35 games as a 2006-07 senior, helping guide Sacred Heart to a second place finish in the Atlantic Hockey Conference (17-7-4 record, 38 points) while the program ranked third in the conference with 99 goals allowed.

Sanders' California hockey experience includes involvement in the San Jose junior Sharks program from 1998-99 while attending classes at Modesto (Calif.) Fred Beyer High. Prior to his college tenure, Sanders spent a two-year stint (2001-03) with the Great Falls Americans (NAHL).

Sanders got his start in hockey as a member with the local Stockton Colts youth hockey program for two seasons (1992-94).

"I've had ambitions to play in a program that's close to home which makes it really exciting to sign with the Thunder," said Sanders. "I've had a chance to see a couple of games while staying at home for winter break while in college, so I'm thrilled at getting an opportunity to play in such an amazing atmosphere."

Sanders joins defenseman Mark Adamek (Hollister, Calif.) as the second California native to join the Thunder roster this off-season.

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