Thunder Signs Free Agent Defenseman Mike Little

Published on September 27, 2011 under ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today that the team has signed rookie free agent defenseman Mike Little. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Little, 23, makes the Thunder his second ECHL team after entering the pro ranks with the Reading Royals last season, when he collected two assists and a +6 rating in his first seven games.

"Mike is a smart, two way defenseman," said Thomas. "He had a good pro debut last spring with Reading and we look for him to use that experience as an opportunity to make an impact early. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in heart and determination."

The 5-foot-9 and 185-pound blueliner spent all four years (2007-11) of his college career at American International College (NCAA) and posted 32 points (5g-27a) and 32 penalty minutes in 133 games.

He posted a career-high 13 points in back-to-back seasons from 2009-11 and led the Yellow Jackets defensemen in scoring as a 2009-10 junior when he suited up in 33 games.

"When you're researching for a great place to play, there are so many things you take into consideration and Stockton seemed like the best fit for the next step in my career," said Little. "(Former Thunder center) Mark Pavli had a great recommendation based on the playing environment, coaching staff and community. It makes me excited for the opportunity ahead to prove myself as a player."

As a 2007-08 freshman with AIC, Little skated in all 36 games and was a teammate of Pavli.

The training camp roster for the Thunder will be announced soon. Training camp will open at Stockton Arena with physicals on Thursday at 9:00 a.m.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 14, when the Thunder opens the 2011-12 regular season at home against the Colorado Eagles, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The game will be a historic ECHL event to welcome in the Eagles, who will play in their inaugural game after spending the previous eight seasons in the Central Hockey League.

The Thunder are freezing most Season Ticket prices for the 2011-12 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting www.stocktonthunder.com. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more.

For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

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