Wichita re-signs leading scorer Cuddemi

Wichita, Kan. - The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and American Hockey League's Bakersfield Condors, announced the re-signing of forward Ralph Cuddemi for the 2018-19 season.

The 25-year-old out of Concord, Ontario returns to the Thunder for a second season. He was acquired in a trade with the Fort Wayne Komets last November and went on to finish tied for fifth in the ECHL with 33 goals and 13th overall in points with 64. He was named the team's MVP and also won the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission's Pro Athlete of the Year.

Cuddemi enters his third full year as a pro after appearing in nine games for the Florida Everblades in 2015-16. During Cuddemi's first full rookie season, he recorded 52 points (27g-25a) in 64 games for the Utah Grizzlies in 2016-17.

Prior to turning pro, Cuddemi played four years at Canisius College. He served as the team's captain during his senior year and tallied 42 points (20g-22a) in 39 games. He led the Golden Griffins in goals in each of the last three seasons and won a AHA Championship in 2013. Cuddemi was named to two AHA Second All-Conference teams during his career.