Vanier Brings Size, Physical Play to Wichita

Wichita, KS (Sept. 1st) - The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the Ottawa Senators and powered by Toyota, announced this afternoon the signing of rookie defenseman Alexis Vanier (VAN-yay) for the 2016-17 season.

"Alex is a big bodied defenseman that can really shoot the puck," said Head Coach Malcolm Cameron. "He's coming off a great final season of junior and we look toward to him carrying it over to the Thunder this season."

Vanier, 20, begins his pro career after spending the last four years in the QMJHL with Baie-Comeau, Sherbrooke, Blainville-Boisbriand and Charlottetown. In 233 career games, the 6-foot-4, 225-pound blueliner collected 96 points (30g, 66a) to go along with 224 penalty minutes. His best season came in 2013-14 with Baie-Comeau when he recorded 36 points (15g, 21a) in 61 games.

"Im very excited to come to Wichita," commented Vanier. "It's a great opportunity for me to be a part of a great organization who can help me in my development. I'm excited to work with Malcolm while also doing my best to help the team get better every night and win."

A native of St-Constant, Quebec, Vanier was drafted in the fourth round by the San Jose Sharks (#102 overall) in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. He was selected as a QMJHL All-Star in 2013-14 and is known for his physical play to go along with his big shot.

Vanier becomes the 15th 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, Blake Tatchell, Greg Amlong and Ryan Tesink.

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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-Thunder-