Valette Named Fourth Captain In Thunder History

Published on October 15, 2009 under ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, the proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League and Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League, announced veteran center Craig Valette (VA-let) has been named the team's new captain, making him the fourth player in Thunder history to wear the "C" since the team joined the ECHL in 2005-06.

Valette, 27, wore the "C" on an acting basis after an injury to 2008-09 captain Matt O'Dette in the first round of the Kelly Cup Playoffs last year. Defensemen Kenny MacAulay and Bryan Young were selected as alternate captains.

"Craig is a perfect figure to lead our group," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "He embodies our team identity that's built around speed, grit and determination. He's a hard worker who is not afraid to step up and be a voice in the locker room, which are important ingredients on any team."

The native of Shellbrook, Saskatchewan helped guide the Thunder to within one win of advancing to the National Conference Finals last year when his 13 points (6g-7a) in 14 games ranked third in Thunder postseason scoring. Originally signed by the Thunder as a free agent on Oct. 17, 2008, he also paced tied for second on the Thunder with six playoff goals, including three game-winning tallies in a seven-game, first round upset of the Pacific Division champion Ontario Reign.

Previously signed to an NHL contract with the San Jose Sharks, Valette scored a goal in three NHL preseason games in 2006-07 and has skated in 392 career games as a professional, scoring 107 points (45g-62) and 522 penalty minutes with the Thunder, combined with 349 AHL games for Cleveland, Worcester, Houston and Syracuse. Valette was an alternate captain with Cleveland from 2005-08.

Valette joins Matt O'Dette (2008-09), Brad Farynuk (2007-08) and Dean Stork (2005-06) in the succession of Thunder captains. The Thunder did not name a captain in 2006-07.

In total, Valette, MacAulay and Young have suited up in a combined 588 games in the AHL and NHL.

"Craig, Kenny and Bryan give us three players with significant experience at the NHL and AHL level," said Thomas. "With Kenny and Bryan filling alternate captaincy roles, we've determined they fill a much-needed support system. They're good role models for our hockey club and young players that have long-term career aspirations. Their leadership will be invaluable."

The 2009-10 season, the Fifth Year Anniversary for the team, launches on Friday, Oct. 16 at Qwest Arena against the Idaho Steelheads at 6:10 p.m. and the Thunder home opener is Friday, Oct. 23 against the Ontario Reign at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, has led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew 223,854 fans to Stockton Arena in 2008-09. Season Tickets for 2009-10 are on sale now. 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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