WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, are excited to announce their third player signing of the 2017 offseason. Wheeling has re-signed defenseman Danny Fick to an ECHL contract.
Fick, 25, returns for his third season with the Nailers, after being a part of the team's run to the Kelly Cup Final in his rookie campaign, then serving as an alternate captain for games during his second year. Danny first came to Wheeling as a training camp invite at the beginning of the 2015-16 season, before playing his way into the lineup on a regular basis. This past season, he had an even more valuable role, as he was frequently utilized on the penalty kill, and to shut down top forwards on opposing teams. The Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota native appeared in 69 of the club's 72 games, recording three goals, 12 assists, and 15 points, to go along with a +3 rating. The three games he missed came at the end of the year, when he earned his first opportunity at the AHL level, suiting up in two games for the San Antonio Rampage. In two seasons with the Nailers, Fick has played in 122 games, recording six goals, 16 assists, and 22 points.
"Danny Fick first came in to Wheeling and made the team as an unknown, but over the last two years, we know him well as a solid shutdown defenseman, who plays lots of minutes for us," said Nailers Head Coach Jeff Christian. "Danny's skating ability is one of his biggest strengths, and last season, he got a bit more physical, doing a good job sticking up for his teammates."
Prior to coming to Wheeling, Danny spent one season in Norway, playing 24 games for Manglerud Star. The third year blueliner played his college hockey at Harvard University, while earning a degree in Economics. During his time with the Crimson, Fick appeared in 96 games, tallying one goal, eight assists, and nine points, while contributing strong play in the defensive zone.
"I'm excited to be back for my third season with the Wheeling organization," Fick said. "The best part of this organization is its ability to develop players, and they have helped me develop my game greatly. This season, I want to help the team get back on track to the Kelly Cup Final."
Danny Fick 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. To purchase season or group tickets, or to get more information on tickets and events, call (304) 234-GOAL.