Thunder Re-Sign Jesse Fratkin

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STOCKTON, Calif. – The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today the team has agreed to terms with center Jesse Fratkin. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Fratkin, 24, is set to return for his second season in Stockton after helping guide the Thunder to the second round of the Kelly Cup Playoffs in 2011-12 and its sixth consecutive playoff berth.

“Jesse had a good first year providing versatility and a strong work ethic that didn’t let up all season,” said Thomas. “Injuries to our club forced him into different situations that not many rookies are exposed to and he responded well. He creates scoring chances because of his relentless attitude each shift and we’re looking for him to take the next step offensively this season.”

The 6-foot and 180-pound forward posted 11 goals last season, ranking fourth among Thunder rookies and collected 30 points (11g-19a) in 56 games.

Fratkin additionally suited up in all eight Kelly Cup Playoff games and scored two goals.

The Burnaby, British Columbia native previously skated in 99 career games in college at Brown University (NCAA), scoring 32 points (14g-18a) and notching 48 penalty minutes. Fratkin was honored for his commitment in the classroom as a four time honoree (2007-11) on the ECAC Hockey All-Academic Team.

“Everything associated with Stockton makes me excited to return for this next season,” said Fratkin. “The Thunder runs a first class organization and the potential to play again with a solid group from last year helps in the goal to build on our success. There’s definitely unfinished business and we want to win for the fans, the organization and the city.”

He is the fourth player to return from last season’s team, joining defensemen Mike Little, Nathan Deck and Tony DeHart.