Deluca Returns to Wichita

Wichita, KS (Sept. 6th) - The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Edmonton Oilers, AHL's Bakersfield Condors and powered by Toyota, announced today the signing of forward Anthony Deluca for the 2018-19 season.

"Anthony has been a prolific scorer at every level," commented Head Coach Malcolm Cameron. "After an initial pro start at 20, he decided to attend school and was a dominant offensive force in Canadian University hockey. After a year in Europe, he decided to try pro in North America again and we're happy he brings that skill set back to Wichita."

Deluca, 23, returns to North America after playing a year overseas in Denmark for Frederikshavn White Hawks. The Rosemere, Quebec native registered 39 points (15g, 24a) in 47 games last season.

"After a couple of great conversations with Coach, I can't wait to be back in Wichita," stated Deluca. " I already know how great the city and fans are and I can't wait to be back with the organization that gave me my first chance at pro hockey. It should be a fun upcoming year for Thunder fans."

He makes his return to Wichita, where he turned pro in 2015-16. The 5-foot-10, 209-pound forward tallied six points (1g, 5a) in 16 games for the Thunder before being dealt to the Alaska Aces. He finished his rookie year with 20 points (7g, 13a) in 46 games.

Deluca left the pro ranks in 2016-17, attending Concordia University (USport) in Canada. He earned several honors, including the Clare Drake Award given to the CIS Rookie of the Year, CIS All-Rookie Team, CIS (OUA East) Rookie of the Year and CIS (OUA East First All-Star Team. In 28 games, he potted 24 goals and 43 points to lead the Stingers.

Prior to turning pro, He had an impressive three-year career with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's Rimouski Oceanic. Deluca led the team in goals (44) and was second in points (91) in 2014-15. He finished ninth in the league in scoring and tied for fifth in goals. In 202 career games with Rimouski, he finished with 209 points (101g-108a) and helped his team to a QMJHL championship. DeLuca also added 18 points (11g-7a) in 19 playoff games. That was highlighted by a hat trick, including the overtime game-winner, in a 4-3 overtime victory against Val-d'Or Foreurs during the semifinals.

Opening Weekend is coming fast. Join us for a pair of games to kick off the 2018-19 campaign as the Idaho Steelheads come to INTRUST Bank Arena on October 12th and followed by the Allen Americans on October 13th.

Season tickets for the 2018-19 campaign are on sale now. Get your seats for just $15 per month. All it takes is a $1 down per seat to reserve yours today. To learn more, click here or contact a Thunder representative at the office today!

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-Thunder-