The Allen Americans announced today that they have re-signed forward Liam Huculak (picture above in Game 3 of the CHL Finals against Rapid City) for the 2010-2011 season. (Photo Credit: John O'Neill)
The Allen Americans announced on Tuesday that they were bringing back gritty forward Liam Huculak, who was a fan favorite in the inaugural season.
“Hooch”, saw a lot of time on the third line for the Americans last season, but was one of those depth guys that any successful hockey team needs. Huculak had just 15 points (7G, 8A) during the regular season, but was second on the team with 111 penalty minutes. His physical style of play often translated to turnovers and giveaways by the opposing team, and that is what Allen is hoping to get from him again in the 2010-2011 season.
Here is the press release from the Americans:
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ALLEN, Texas – The Allen Americans announced today that forward Liam Huculak (HOOCH-a-lack) will be returning to the club for the franchise’s second season.
“Huculak brings a great presence on the ice. He’s tough and competes hard,” Americans Head Coach and General Manager said Thursday. “He’s also a great teammate in the locker room.”
The six-foot-five, 225-pound forward played in 75 games last season for Allen, including the playoffs. The agitator racked up 111 penalty minutes in 55 regular-season contests and spent 26 minutes in the sin bin during the playoffs. Huculak scored five points in the postseason, including the Americans first playoff goal in franchise history.
Fans got to know the outgoing forward better through his weekly radio show, “Hangin’ with Hooch,” that aired every Wednesday.
Huculak graduated from Colgate University in 2007, where he played four seasons for the Raiders. The Lethbridge, Alberta, native served as captain during his senior year. Before attending school, Huculak played two seasons in the British Columbia Junior Hockey League. After graduating he played two seasons in the ECHL before playing for the Americans last year.
Huculak is the fourth player from the Americans 2009-10 Southern Conference Champion team to re-sign for the upcoming season. He joins forwards Bruce Graham, Nino Musitelli and Colton Yellow Horn. Former CHL Rookie of the Year David Nimmo is also under contract with Allen for 2010-11.
