Wichita, KS (August 25th) - The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the Ottawa Senators and powered by Toyota, turned their attention to the blue line this afternoon with the signing of defenseman Greg Amlong to the roster for 2016-17 season. "Greg had a solid senior season at RIT," said Head Coach Malcolm Cameron. "He's coming into Wichita after some experience in the ECHL with Greenville. He's a big, puck moving defenseman that sees the ice well and can play in many situations. We look forward to seeing Greg in camp."
Amlong, 24, begins his rookie campaign after splitting a four-year college career between UMass-Lowell and RIT. The O'Fallon, Missouri native had a terrific senior season, notching 21 points (7g, 14a) in 36 games and helped RIT to consecutive Atlantic Hockey Association championships. Amlong earned Atlantic Hockey Defensive Player of the Week honors last November. He helped UMass-Lowell to the regular season and postseason Hockey East titles in 2012-13 before trasnferring to RIT for his final two years. After his senior season, he signed a professional contract with the Greenville Swamp Rabbits.
"I'm anxious to get the season started with the Wichita Thunder," commented Amlong. "I'm excited to play under Malcolm Cameron as his resume speaks for itself. I'm excited to see what he can do for me as a player in the future. Going to Greenville helped me get my feet wet in the ECHL and the type of talent you play against on a daily basis. I was fortunate enough to be used in all situations and getting extra playing time."
The 6-foot-2, 209-pounder returns to the Midwest where he played his junior hockey. Amlong spent two seasons with the USHL's Cedar Rapids Roughriders, tallying 38 points (10g, 28a) in 99 career games and served as an alternate captain in 2011-12.
Amlong becomes the 13th player added to the preseason roster, joining Louick Marcotte, Mitch Holmberg, Ian Lowe, Alexis Loiseau, Gerrad Grant, Landon Oslanski, Dalton Reum, Vincent Arseneau, Drew Owsley, James Melindy, Matt DeBlouw and Blake Tatchell.
The Thunder kicks off their 25th Anniversary season on Saturday, October 15th against the Tulsa Oilers. Season tickets are on sale now. Place a $25 deposit for up to four seats and pay it off in 14 payments. Contact a Thunder representative at the office today.
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