Former Solar Bears player Brad Tapper named assistant coach

Tapper joins head coach Vince Williams on Solar Bears coaching staff

ORLANDO, Fla. - The Orlando Solar Bears, proud affiliates of the NHL's Minnesota Wild and Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL's Iowa Wild and Toronto Marlies, announced today that Brad Tapper has been named as the team's assistant coach.

"Brad is a great addition to the Orlando Solar Bears coaching staff and organization," said Head Coach Vince Williams. "He will be a valuable asset to the personal and professional growth of our players."

Tapper and Williams have a combined 18 years playing and coaching in the ECHL and collectively have played or coached on six championship teams.

Tapper played in 47 games (45 regular season and 2 playoff games) for the Solar Bears during their 2000-01 Turner Cup Championship season, his first as a pro. That season, he also appeared in 16 games for the Atlanta Thrashers (NHL), notching two goals and three assists. He went on to play in 71 NHL games from 2000-2003, totaling 25 points on 14 goals and 11 assists. His professional playing career spanned nine seasons across the NHL, IHL (International Hockey League), AHL (American Hockey League), and DEL (Germany).  He also won championships as a member of the Chicago Wolves (2002 Calder Cup) and for Team Canada (2008 Deutschland Cup).

The Scarborough, ON, native began his tenure as an assistant coach for the Florida Everblades in 2010-11 and served in that capacity for the last three seasons, including winning a Kelly Cup in 2011-12. Prior to his time with Florida, Tapper was the Head Coach for the North York Rangers in the Central Canada Hockey League.

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Minnesota Wild and Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL's Iowa Wild and Toronto Marlies, play all of their home games at the 2012 Street and Smith's Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year, the Amway Center.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com, Facebook, and Twitter(@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates.

Don't get shut-out when we sell out! Take advantage of the Orlando Solar Bears season ticket pre-sale offer by placing a $50 deposit per ticket now to receive seat selection priority for the 2013-14 season. Call the Solar Bears at 407-951-8200 or visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call 407-951-8200 or visit www.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/groups.

Officially licensed Orlando Solar Bears replica team jerseys, apparel, and headwear can be purchased online at: http://shop.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/