Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Thunderbirds bolster roster with puck-moving defenceman

Press Release

Sault Ste. Marie, ON – The Soo Thunderbirds bolstered its defensive wall recently by adding Kris Barclay to its lineup. The 20-year-old was acquired from the Pickering Panthers, of the Ontario Jr. Hockey League.

Hailing from Ajax, Ont., Barclay is a puck-moving defenceman who’s not afraid to jump into the play when the opportunity arises. This two-way style caught the eye of Thunderbirds general manager Kevin Cain, who was eager to snatch up the 180-pounder to help fill roster gaps caused by several injuries as of late.

“Kris is a special kind of player,” the GM said. “He competes and gives it everything he has. He’s a great addition to the club, and we’re thrilled to have him in our lineup, particularly as the regular season winds down and we gear up for playoffs.”

Playing hockey in the Greater Toronto Area, Barclay jumped at the chance to skate in Sault Ste. Marie, a smaller market where people take Junior hockey very seriously. “It’s awesome playing here,” he said. “The fans are behind the team, which feels great as a player.”

As well, given the Thunderbirds blockbuster season so far – where the team sits in first place in the Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League – Barclay was especially eager to head north.

“Being my last year of Junior hockey, it’s great playing on a contending team,” he said. “I’m really excited to be here, and I hope to be able to help the club in any way possible.”

For full schedule and other information, including updated news and player bios, visit www.tbirdhockey.ca.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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