Wichita signs rookie forward Tatchell

Wichita, Kan. - The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the Ottawa Senators, announced the team has come to terms with forward Blake Tatchell for the 2016-17 season.

Tatchell joins the Thunder following a four-year career at the University of Alaska-Anchorage. He appeared in 142 games, totaling 103 points (31g-72a) and was named to the 2014-15 WCHA Third All-Star Team.

A native of North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Tatchell was named the Team MVP and Rookie of the Year during his freshman campaign. During his senior year, he served as an alternate captain and then went on to sign an amateur tryout contract with the American Hockey League's Lake Erie Monsters.

Prior to his collegiate career, Tatchell played three seasons for the SJHL's Battleford North Stars from 2009-12. He racked up 190 points (78g-112a) in 169 games while also being named Team MVP back-to-back seasons. His best season came in 2011-12 when he recorded 86 points (42g-44a) in 57 games and was named the league's MVP. He was also a finalist for the RBC Canadian Junior Hockey League Player of the Year Award.