N. Richland Hills, TX - The Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League (CHL) will bring back a familiar face on the blueline as they announced the signing of veteran defenseman Mike Vellinga for the 2008-09 season.
The stay at home defenseman brought his leadership and experience last season to the Brahmas, playing 63 of the 64 regular season games and all 14 in the postseason. Vellinga was responsible for shutting down opponent's top lines in games.
In 2007-08, the 6-foot-1 and 234 pounds, recorded 14 points (1 goal, 13 assists) with 66 penalty minutes. Prior to joining the Brahmas last season, Vellinga played eight seasons in the ECHL, posting 156 points (27 goals, 129 assists) and 779 penalty minutes in 513 games. With Laredo, Vellinga put up 34 points (5 G, 29 A) and won the Ray Miron President's Cup championship.
The National Hockey League (NHL) 1996 Draft Pick by the Chicago Blackhawks (7th round, 184th pick), will return to the Brahmas with 10 years of professional hockey experience, something Brahmas Assistant Coach Forbes MacPherson believes is valuable to the team.
"Vellinga played sound defensive hockey last season, something that is very difficult to come by. His experience is an intangible for the organization," said MacPherson.
