Thunder Hires Former CHL Coach of the Year

WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Thunder introduced four-time Stanley Cup champion and former Central Hockey League Coach of the Year Kevin McClelland as the 12th Head Coach in franchise history at a Monday press conference.

A former fourth round draft pick of the Hartford Whalers in 1980, McClelland spent 12 seasons playing in the NHL, most notably for the Edmonton Oilers' dynasty during the mid-1980's.  The Oshawa, Ontario native helped the Oilers win four Stanly Cups in a five-year span from 1984-1988.  A gritty right winger, McClelland totaled 1,672 PIM in 588 career NHL games while chipping in 180 points.

"We are thrilled to be able to hire someone as high-caliber as Kevin", said Thunder General Manager Joel T. Lomurno.  "He is the complete package when it comes to coaching.  He is a great recruiter, he is a proven winner, he is a personable, yet no-nonsense, and he is highly respected both by his players and his peers."

McClelland spent five years as an Assistant Coach for the AHL's St. John's Maple Leafs before earning his first job as a professional Head Coach with the Memphis RiverKings in 2005-06.  After a 22-37-5 campaign in his first year behind the bench, McClelland restored the RiverKings' franchise back to prominence the following season, leading Memphis to a 39-19-6 record that earned him CHL Coach of the Year honors.

After guiding the RiverKings to another postseason appearance in 2007-08, McClelland accepted Head Coaching duties for the Colorado Eagles.  During his two seasons in Loveland, McClelland compiled a league-best record of 87-30-11 that included a division title, two postseason appearances, and a trip to the 2009 President's Cup Finals.  In total, McClelland has reached the CHL playoffs in four consecutive years.

"I want to thank Horn Chen for understanding and helping us do whatever it took to ensure that Kevin was the next coach of the Wichita Thunder", said Lomurno.

The Thunder begins the 2010-2011 season in mid-October.  All 32 of the Thunder's home games will be played at the INTRUST Bank Arena.  Season ticket deposits are being accepted now.  For more information, call the Thunder office at (316) 264-GOAL.

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