Thunder Legend Retires
Published on April 26, 2010 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
WICHITA, KS- Jason Duda, the Wichita Thunder's all-time leader in every major offensive category, officially announced his retirement at a Monday press conference and will take over as the team's Assistant Coach.
After spending 14 years in a Thunder uniform, Duda retires as the franchise's all-time leader in games played (730), goals (337), assists (533), and points (870). From 2001-2003, Duda played in 225 consecutive games which stands as the longest streak in Thunder history and the third longest in CHL history.
"Jason is an icon in this city and one of the CHL's all-time greats", said Thunder General Manager Joel T. Lomurno. "His skill, leadership, and professionalism will be greatly missed by our fans and our organization, but we are pleased that he will still be a part of the Thunder family."
Duda's professional career began in 1996 with the rival Oklahoma City Blazers. Wichita acquired Duda on December 19, 1996 where he went on to compile one of the greatest careers in CHL history. Duda ranks second all-time in games played (745), and third in goals (339), assists (539), and points (878).
Duda's signature moment came during the 1997 playoffs when he scored the series-clinching overtime goal against Oklahoma City in Game Four of the opening round. The 34-year old scored 60 or more points in a season nine times and had 80 or more points five times. Duda's best season came in 2004-05 when he had a career-high 96 points which led the CHL and was also a finalist for the 2005 CHL's Most Valuable Player Award.
Duda got off to a hot start last season, scoring two goals and three assists in five games, but missed the remainder of the season due to a back injury that required surgery. Duda took over as interim Head Coach in early November and held the position through the end of the 2009-10 season.
Duda's announcement followed the Thunder's introduction of Kevin McClelland as the 12th Head Coach in franchise history.
The Thunder begins the 2010-2011 season in mid-October. All 32 of the Thunder's home games will be played at the INTRUST Bank Arena. Season ticket deposits are being accepted now. For more information, call the Thunder office at (316) 264-GOAL.
Central Hockey League Stories from April 26, 2010
- Allen Americans Weekly Notes - Allen Americans
- Join Us Tomorrow For Fan Appreciation Night - Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs
- Pankewicz To Remain As Eagles' Assistant Coach; Duties To Increase Under Chris Stewart - Colorado Eagles
- Shots From The Point - CHL
- Thunder Signs Former CHL Coach Of The Year - Wichita Thunder
- Thunder Legend Retires - Wichita Thunder
- Brahmas Host Rescheduled Golf Tournament June 6 - Fort Worth Brahmas
- Americans Launch Fan Appreciation Week - Allen Americans
- Bucks' Online Jersey Auction Underway - Laredo Bucks
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
