Nailers Ink Captain with Season's First Signing
Published on July 19, 2007 under ECHL (ECHL)
Wheeling Nailers News Release
WHEELING, WV - The Wheeling Nailers announced their first signing for the 2007-08 season by bringing back last year's captain Sean Collins.
Collins, 24, will return for his third season with the Nailers after leading the team in assists (49) and points (76) in 2006-07. He has put up identical numbers in each of his first two seasons years scoring 27 goals and 49 assists for 76 points. Collins accomplished it in five fewer games last season as an injury as well as PTO's with both Philadelphia and Worcester (AHL) limited him to 57 games.
"Obviously it's your goal to play in the American League but when that didn't happen I was more than happy to come back and play for Wheeling," said Collins. "I have enjoyed my time there and am looking forward to another season."
He rejoins the club, not just as the on-ice centerpiece to their offense but also assumes the role of an offensive assistant to Head Coach Glenn Patrick.
"Coaching is something I want to get into after my playing career is done," said Collins. It will be a challenge and a good teaching tool and definitely something I am looking forward to."
A fan favorite in Wheeling, Collins has dazzled crowds with his great vision and beautiful plays. He has won the respect of teammates with his hard work, high skill level and leadership ability. He was named the captain in November 2006.
"I think he is the best forward in the league and we are very excited to have him back in this expanded role," said Patrick. "He has shown the leadership in the past and I know we can count on him to keep it up."
The Wheeling Nailers are expected to announce their defensive assistant for the upcoming season in the near future.
Collins was originally drafted in the 9th round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche. He played four years at the University of New Hampshire (01-05) posting career numbers of 77 goals and 96 assists in 164 games.
The Nailers and Johnstown Chiefs will be the only game played on Opening Day for the 20th Anniversary Season on Oct. 18. It will be a rematch of Game 7 from the first-ever ECHL Finals. Wheeling will open their home schedule on Oct. 26 against the South Carolina Stingrays.
For ticketing information call the Nailers office at 304-264-GOAL (toll free at 877-NAIL-TIX) or visit www.wheelingnailers.com.
Starting Wednesday, July 25th and every Wednesday for the rest of the summer, celebrate the "Dog Days of Summer" with Spike and the Nailers as they serve a free hotdog lunch in front of their downtown office - 1315 Main Street. Quantities are limited, so join us between 11:30am and 1pm.
ECHL Stories from July 19, 2007
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- Royals Sign Defenseman Donny Grover - Reading Royals
- 'Blades to host CHL's RiverKings in Pre-season - Florida Everblades
- Ice Pilots Team Up With Chicago, Rockford - Pensacola Ice Pilots
- Nailers Ink Captain with Season's First Signing - Wheeling Nailers
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