Salmon Kings collect Cole for another season

August 14, 2007 - ECHL (ECHL)
Victoria Salmon Kings News Release


Victoria, BC- The Victoria Salmon Kings, proud affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks and Manitoba Moose, announced today that the team has agreed to terms with veteran Defenseman Phil Cole. He was one of seven players extended qualifying offers at the beginning of July.

Cole, 24, is the Salmon Kings All-Time plus/minus leader (+10). He participated in Manitoba's camp last season, and was acquired by Victoria in a trade with the Augusta Lynx in October. He was called up to the Moose for a game in November of last season.

"Phil is a big, physical player who has substantial pro experience, and is crucial for support of our goaltenders and defensive system," said Dan Belisle, Vice-President of Hockey Operations and General Manager. "He has potential to compete in the AHL again, in addition to helping our rookie players achieve the same goal."

The 6-foot-4, 205-pound native of Winnipeg, Manitoba was selected by the New Jersey Devils in the fourth round (#125 overall) in the 2000 National Hockey League (NHL) Entry Draft.

From 2002 to 2006, Cole shared time in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Albany River Rats and the Philadelphia Phantoms, and in the ECHL with the Columbus Cottonmouths, Cincinnati Cyclones, and the Lynx. In 278 pro games, he has collected 47 points (11 goals, 36 assists) and 572 penalty minutes.

Prior to his pro career, Cole was a member of the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League and notched 47 points and 397 penalty minutes in 198 games. He finished the 2001-02 season with the Vancouver Giants and Medicine Hat Tigers.

Season tickets are still available - don't miss out! Reserve your seat to exhilarating pro hockey today! Call 220-7889. View the 2007-08 season schedule at www.salmonkings.com/schedule.asp



ECHL Stories from August 14, 2007


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