Nailers Re-Sign Daniel Leavens

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, are excited to announce their second player signing of the 2017 offseason. Wheeling has re-signed forward Daniel Leavens to an ECHL contract.

Leavens, 24, joined the Nailers at the end of the 2016-17 season, after completing his final season at Robert Morris University. Daniel made his professional debut on March 22nd, scoring a goal in a 4-1 home victory against the Idaho Steelheads. A little more than a week later, he posted a two-goal game, which included the game winning marker in a 4-3 triumph over the Brampton Beast. The Toronto, Ontario native saved one of his best performances for the final home game of the regular season, when he racked up four points in a 7-2 throttling of the Kalamazoo Wings. Leavens ended up with five goals, three assists, and eight points in seven games.

"Daniel Leavens came to us after finishing his college season at Robert Morris University, who we have developed a good relationship with," said Nailers Head Coach Jeff Christian. "Daniel made an impact early, while getting a good look at what it takes to develop into a pro. He has lots of offensive upside."

The rookie forward had an outstanding career at Robert Morris University, appearing in 136 games, amassing 40 goals, 68 assists, and 108 points. Daniel's best season with the Colonials was his senior year, when he finished second on the team with 49 points in 38 games. His highest goal output came during his junior campaign, when he lit the lamp 18 times in 39 contests. Prior to his time at RMU, Leavens played four seasons of junior hockey in the OPJHL with the Hamilton Red Wings and Newmarket Hurricanes. During that stretch, he totaled 179 points in 186 games.

"I got a good opportunity when I came in at the end of the year, and I wanted to take advantage of that," Leavens said. "The coaching staff was helpful, and it was great to get leadership from some of the other players. My goal is to continue to make strides, and help the team out in whatever role I'm put in."

Daniel Leavens and the Wheeling Nailers will begin the 2017-18 season with two road games against the Greenville Swamp Rabbits on October 13th and 14th. The home opener at WesBanco Arena takes place on October 21st at 7:05, when the Nailers do battle with the Cincinnati Cyclones. Be on the lookout for the promotional schedule and mini plan information in the near future. The Nailers will also be holding a Free Agent Tryout Camp in Wilkes-Barre on July 22nd and 23rd. To purchase season or group tickets, or to get more information on tickets and events, call (304) 234-GOAL.