Nailers Re-Sign Garrett Meurs

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, are excited to announce their 11th player signing of the 2017 offseason. Wheeling has re-signed forward Garrett Meurs to an ECHL contract.

Meurs, 24, enters his fifth professional season and second with the Nailers, as he came to Wheeling last summer, following three seasons in the Colorado Avalanche organization. Garrett was one of the top offensive performers for the Nailers last season, as he finished second on the squad with 25 goals, while his 55 points were good for fourth place on the team. Some highlights from the year included a five-game point streak in November and seven points during a three-game stretch in February. Meurs was also the lone Wheeling player to eclipse 100 penalty minutes in 2016-17. Garrett has tallied 112 points in his ECHL career with the Nailers and Fort Wayne Komets, while suiting up in 240 career games between the AHL and ECHL levels.

"Garrett Meurs came into Wheeling last year, loved it, and became a fan favorite," said Nailers Head Coach Jeff Christian. "He had a career year in goals and points, and we're looking forward to seeing him build on what he started. He's a gritty player, who gets in guys' faces, and when he plays on that edge, that's when he's at his best."

Prior to turning pro, the Wingham, Ontario native played four seasons of junior hockey for the OHL's Plymouth Whalers. There, he collected 78 goals, 114 assists, and 192 points in 265 games. Meurs' best campaign was his final one in 2012-13, when he accumulated 32 goals and 65 points to lead the team in scoring, while helping the Whalers reach the conference final round. At the conclusion of his second season in Plymouth, Garrett earned the honor of being selected in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Colorado called his name with the 123rd overall pick.

"Last year was a great year that had lots of good things happen, but we're hoping to build on that, make the playoffs, and hopefully bring the Kelly Cup to Wheeling," Meurs said. "Between the coaching staff and trainers and the guys, I couldn't go wrong. It's a great organization, and I can't wait to get started."

Garrett Meurs 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, flex, or group tickets, or to get more information on tickets and events, call (304) 234-GOAL.