Thunder add hard-working winger
Published on July 20, 2005 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Thunder today announced that they have signed rookie forward Kris Wiebe.
A 6-0, 200-pound right wing out of Lloydminster, Alberta, Wiebe (pronounced WEEB) played last season for Niagara University, where he finished fourth on the Purple Eagles with 24 points. He also chipped in 11 goals, including five on the power play and three game-winners.
Prior to attending Niagara, Wiebe played three seasons at Findlay University, where he was a teammate of Thunder goaltender Jamie Vandepsyker. His best season came in 2003-04, when he led the team with 18 goals and 28 points. His 18 goals were fourth best in the CHA Conference, earning him a spot on the CHA All-Tournament Team. An Academic All-American, Wiebe totaled 44 goals, 78 points and 177 penalty minutes in 139 career games.
Before college, Wiebe played for the Lloydminster Blazers of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) in 2000-01, where he served as team captain and was a teammate of 2005 CHL Defenseman of the Year Paul Esdale. In 63 games, he led the team with 25 goals, 37 assists and 62 points. He also chipped in 137 penalty minutes and earned the Blazers "Most Dedicated Player" Award.
"Kris is a strong, hard-working winger who will bring leadership, scoring and grit to the lineup", said Thunder head coach Derek Laxdal. "He comes highly touted by former teammates Vandespyker, Esdale and Travis Clayton, who all agree he will be a tremendous asset both on the ice and in the dressing room."
Wiebe is the ninth player signed for the upcoming season, joining rookie forwards Tim Earl and Ryan Coghlan, rookie defensemen Brandon Cox and Darren McMillan, as well as returning forwards Tyler Liebel, Joe Blaznek, Travis Clayton and Jason Duda.
The Thunder will open their 14th CHL season with a pair of home games on Friday, October 21st and Saturday, October 22nd. The full CHL schedule is expected to be announced next Wednesday. Season tickets and corporate packages for the 2005-06 season are on sale now. To order your tickets or for more information, call the Thunder office at 264-GOAL or visit our website at www.wichitathunder.com.
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