Ice Flyers Re-Sign Jesse Kallechy and Tyler Soehner

[chilly666]

The Pensacola Ice Flyers have signed returning players, goaltender Jesse Kallechy and defenseman Tyler Soehner for the 2012-13 season, as announced by head coach Gary Graham today.

Having started his 2011-12 rookie season with the Knoxville Ice Bears, Kallechy posted a 6-2-1 record, 1.86 goals-against average, a .931 save percentage and 1 shutout in 9 games after joining the Ice Flyers, proving to be an asset to the success of the team late in the season.

"Kallechy has a high compete level and had a great run late in the season," Graham stated. "He tracks the puck very well and has great rebound control. He's a young goalie with something to prove, and I am excited to have him come back and add strength in net for us."

He appeared in a total of 74 games in two seasons while playing in the AJHL for the Fort McMurray Oil Barons. His most notable season was 2010-11, when he went 32-13-1 with a 2.25 goals against average, a .922 save percentage and 7 shutouts.

"I felt extremely fortunate to end the year with the Ice Flyers last season, and to be a part of the race to the finals. I'm literally counting down the days until we start camp," Kallechy said with a smile. "I feel I've learned a lot in my rookie season in the SPHL, and I'm looking forward to not only utilizing my experiences in tough game situations, but also to guiding the new guys and showing them what Ice Flyer hockey is all about."

Soehner, a veteran with the Pensacola Ice Flyers, will enter his third season as a pro. He tallied five goals, 29 assists for 34 points last season, which not only led the team among defensemen but also placed him fourth in defensemen scoring in the SPHL.

"I'm really eager to get back to Pensacola and get back to work," said Soehner. "For me personally, I feel the last two seasons have provided me with the knowledge and skill necessary to help lead this team to a championship. That's our goal. I'm anticipating a great season working with Gary and reconnecting with the returning players, as well as welcoming new teammates to the organization."

The 5-foot-10, 185-pound defenseman played four years in the State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) for Buffalo State recording 14 goals and 47 assists in 86 games.

"Soehner will play a big role in my lineup and I will be counting on him to be a leader," Graham said. "After watching game film, I can tell he's a good skater who handles the puck well and has a gritty side to his game. I want him to continue to contribute offensively, especially on the power play, and I am happy that he will be returning to Pensacola."

[BobNystromOwnsU]

Pilotsfan has been pretty quiet about his BFF Soehner's resigning.