Thunder Returns Young Stars
August 26, 2009 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Thunder bolstered its offense on Wednesday, re-signing forwards Troy Ofukany and Marc Belanger.
In his first season of professional hockey, Ofukany became a dual-threat up front for Wichita, scoring 36 points and totaling 122 PIM in 62 games. Ofukany had six multi-point games last season, including a hat trick and two assists on January 2nd versus Colorado. Originally from Kamloops, British Columbia, Ofukany played four seasons in the WHL before turning pro, notching 149 points and 321 PIM in 265 games. Ofukany earned the Thunder's Most Improved Player Award at the end of the season. Ofukany's 17 goals tied him for 11th among CHL rookies, while his 36th points ranked 18th.
Belanger, also a true rookie last season, came to the Thunder via an early February trade with the eventual champion Texas Brahmas. Belanger scored a total of 20 goals in 62 games, ranking tied for ninth among CHL rookies. The Nanaimo, British Columbia native played four seasons at St. Norbert College where he scored 62 goals and 132 points in 119 games. Prior to the Thunder's final home game, in which he would score two goals, Belanger played a major role in the team's pre-game festivities by removing his #15 jersey in honor of Thunder great Rob Weingartner whom the number is now retired for.
The second-year forwards give the Thunder 17 players under contract for the 2009-10 season. Training camp begins on Monday, October 5th and is open to the public at the Wichita Ice Center.
The Thunder opens the 2009-10 season on Friday, October 16th when they host the Amarillo Gorillas at the Kansas Coliseum. Season tickets and packages are on sale now. The Thunder hosts two exhibition contests against the expansion Missouri Mavericks on October 9th and 10th at the Wichita Ice Center. All seats are just $10.00 general admission. For tickets and more information, contact the Thunder office at (316) 264-GOAL.
Central Hockey League Stories from August 26, 2009
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