THE ARTICLE:
He helped the eagles to soar, and now he’s in Perth, and the storm is only just beginning!
If you hadn’t figured it out yet, we’re talking about ECHL All-Star, and 3rd round NHL Draft Pick, Michael Forney, Perth Thunder’s latest import acquisition. Michael, or simply ‘Mike’ to his friends and teammates, joins the Thunder at a very important time for the team. Now in their second year in the AIHL, Thunder’s expectations have never been higher, and it was those expectations that led Head Coach, Stan Scott, to Michael Forney.
Since its formation in 2000, The AIHL has grown from three teams competing in a tournament format, to a fully fledged national competition, comprising eight teams and representing four states and the ACT. While it has attracted aging former NHL players in previous years, the signing of Michael Forney in the competition highlights just how far the league has come over the last decade. Just one look at Forney’s stats and history will demonstate his ice hockey pedigree. The East Coast and American Hockey Leagues in North America are development and feeder leagues for the NHL and many of today’s stars honed their skills in these leagues. To attract a player like Michael, in his prime, is a huge statement.
Michael, a native of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, joins the Thunder after a record-setting season for the Colorado Eagles in the ECHL. Forney finished 2nd in the scoring race and earned his second appearance at the ECHL all-star game. Unfortunately, the Eagles were unable to progress further than the opening round of the 2012-13 ECHL Playoffs, after being eliminated by the Idaho Steelheads in six games.
Michael and Stan Scott has been in discussion about joining the Thunder since last season. Michael had heard great things about the AIHL and was keen to join an up and coming team where he could really make a impact. Soon after committing to the Thunder, Forney also signed a contract with Villavich SV, of the Erste Bank Hockey League in Austria and will join the team at the end of the AIHL season.
Forney is a hockey player, through and through. His dedication to the game and his unwaivering passion to keep playing at the highest levels is clear. Now its time to see just how he can elevate the Thunder from hopefuls, to the real deal. Joining Michael in Perth, is Colorado Eagles teammate, Matt Strueby. Michael and Matt shared the ice in 23 games for the Eagles last season and are likely linemates for the Thunder. Having both players on the team will surely bring some stability and extra confidence to their game, and also help develop the Thunder’s special teams.
For Michael, the expectations are clear. The AIHL is waiting, the Thunder fans are ready. Its Showtime.