Junior Teammates Reunite as Thunder Adds Defenseman

Wichita, KS-  The Wichita Thunder of the Central Hockey League announced Friday the signing of defenseman Francis Trudel. The Drummondville, PQ native is a former teammate of Alex Bourret and will be in the line-up this weekend.

Trudel (5'11'', 195-lbs) began the season with the Sheffield Steelers of the British Elite League. The 29-year old is in his fourth season as a professional, having played two years in Norway and a season in Italy. Prior to turning pro, he spent four seasons of college hockey at the University of Moncton from 2004-08 and recording 64 points in 122 games.

Trudel joins Bourret in Wichita as the two were teammates from 2002-2004 in Sherbrooke and Lewiston of the QMJHL. In four seasons of junior hockey, Trudel registered 164 points in 213 games. His best season came in 2003-04 when he collected 51 points (8g, 43a) and 96 PIM.

Wichita takes on the Allen Americans tonight in a battle for first place before returning home for two games over the weekend, hosting the Tulsa Oilers on Saturday night and Quad City on Sunday afternoon. For tickets, call 755-SEAT, visit the INTRUST Bank Arena box office or online at www.selectaseat.com

-Thunder-