Thunder Re-Sign Flath, Add Skilled Forward Trimm
July 11, 2012 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
Wichita, KS (July 11th) - The Wichita Thunder of the Central Hockey League is very excited to announce the re-signing of forward RG Flath and newcomer Neil Trimm for the 2012-13 season.
Flath returns for his second go-around after joining the team last season 24 games in. A native of Park City, UT, Flath recorded a career-high 23 goals in just 42 games and also scored a career-best nine goals in the Thunder's playoff run. His first professional hat trick on March 20th against the Texas Brahmas helped Wichita clinch the Governor's Cup for the most overall points during the regular season.
"I'm really excited to be coming back to Wichita," stated Flath. "It's a great place to play with amazing fans. We came so close last year and hopefully we can get back to the finals and bring back the cup to a city that deserves it."
Flath will begin his sixth professional season after spending time in Austin, Corpus Christi, Mississippi, Oklahoma City and Rapid City. Flath started last year overseas with Sheffield of the EIHL before returning state-side. For his career, Flath has played in 285 professional games, accumulating 179 points (88g, 91a). Prior to the start of his pro career, Flath played at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, where his career numbers with the Raiders included 37 goals, 64 points, and 131 penalty minutes over two seasons. Flath played his junior hockey for the Soo Indians of the NAHL, where he scored 50 goals, 92 points, and received 272 penalty minutes over his four-year career.
The Thunder also announced the signing of highly skilled forward Neil Trimm. A native of Westmeath, ONT, the 6-foot-2, 200-pounder is entering his fifth professional season after spending last year in Laredo. In 2010-11, he finished 11th in the CHL in scoring by posting 80 points (22g, 58a). During the 2009-10 campaign, Trimm compiled 30 points (14 goals, 16 assists) despite missing 21 games due to injury. He began his professional career in 2008-09 with the New Mexico Scorpions and ranked 10th in CHL rookie scoring with 44 points (17g, 27a).
"I'm really excited to be a part of a first class organization," said Trimm. "I've heard a lot of great things about the city of Wichita, the organization and the fans. I'm looking forward to competing for a championship this upcoming season."
Before turning professional, Trimm played at Neumann College (NCAA D-III) where he compiled 175 points (61g, 114a) in 85 career games. Trimm is still the Knights all-time leading scorer, all-time leader in assists, as well as second all-time in goals. During his time with the Knights, he earned All-American honors and was a two-time ECAC West All-Star. He had his number "9" retired following his senior season in 2007-08.
"We are very excited to be adding both of these guys into the mix for the upcoming season," commented Head Coach Kevin McClelland. "Flath was a great addition to our team mid-December and am looking forward to see him contribute for a full season. We are happy to bring in a guy with the skills that Neil has. He was one of the top scorers in the league a few years ago and he will be able to step right in and contribute for us next season."
Wichita Thunder season tickets for 2012-13 are now on sale. A $50 dollar non-refundable deposit is required for all season tickets. Contact the Wichita Thunder Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at (316) 264-4625 if you are interested in season tickets. Stay up-to-date on all the news this off-season by visiting www.wichitathunder.com.
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Central Hockey League Stories from July 11, 2012
- Thunder Re-Sign Flath, Add Skilled Forward Trimm - Wichita Thunder
- Blaze Sign Goalie for Upcoming Season - Bloomington Blaze
- Cramer Coming Back to Oilers After Stellar Rookie Season - Tulsa Oilers
- All-Star Lutes Joins Cutthroats for Opening Season - Denver Cutthroats
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