Thunder re-signs key defenseman
Published on July 19, 2006 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Thunder announced today that defenseman Darren McMillan has re-signed with the team for a second season.
A 26-year-old native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, McMillan was one of the Thunder's most pleasant surprises last season, playing steady defense and earning the 2006 Thunder Rookie of the Year Award.
Although not known for his offense, McMillan scored his first pro goal on his first shift last season, shorthanded, 50 seconds into the season opener versus Odessa. Ironically, he also scored the last regulation goal of the season for the Thunder, a clutch, game-tying tally in Wichita's season finale, overtime win over Oklahoma City.
McMillan, who played in all 69 games, notched a total of three goals and 18 points, but it was his defense which drew the most accolades. He finished the season ranked second on the Thunder for plus/minus at +11 and both an article in the Wichita Eagle and a fan poll on the Thunder website www.wichitathunder.com last season, ranked him among the best defensive defenseman in Thunder history.
"Darren was one of our most consistent and reliable players last season", said Thunder head coach Mark French. "He is an excellent defender, who will solidify our defensive corps for the upcoming season."
Prior to turning pro, McMillan played three seasons from 1998-2001 with the Ontario Hockey League's Erie Otters, recording 65 points in 188 games, followed by four years of college hockey at St. Francis Xavier University, where he notched 22 points in 82 games. He graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Political Science.
The Thunder will begin their 15th CHL season with a pair of home games on Friday and Saturday, October 20th and 21st. Thunder season tickets, still the least expensive in the CHL, are on sale now, ranging from $256 to $408. For more information, call the Thunder office at 264-GOAL or visit our website at www.wichitathunder.com.
Central Hockey League Stories from July 19, 2006
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- Vandermeer Nets Key Role with Rocky Mountain Rage - Rocky Mountain Rage
- Thunder re-signs key defenseman - Wichita Thunder
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