Kessel loaned to Rochester

Solar Bears defenseman earns AHL call-up

ORLANDO, Fla. - The Orlando Solar Bears, proud affiliate of the NHL's Minnesota Wild and Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL's Iowa Wild and Toronto Marlies, announced today that D Blake Kessel has been loaned to the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League.

Kessel has played in 43 games for the Solar Bears this season, scoring seven goals and adding 26 assists for 33 points. He began the year with the Bakersfield Condors, totaling one goal and two assists in four games. He has played in 101 games in his ECHL career, picking up 77 points on 16 goals and 61 assists. The native of Madison, WI, has played 66 games in his AHL career with Rockford and Adirondack, posting three goals and 19 assists for 22 points. He is currently fourth among ECHL defensemen with 36 points.

Orlando Solar Bears individual game tickets for the 2013-14 season are on sale. Tickets can be purchased at the Amway Center Box Office or online at OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.comor Ticketmaster.com. For the Promotional Calendar, click here.

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. Stay in touch with Shades on Instagram by following ShadestheSolarBear.

Don't get shut-out when we sell out! Take advantage of the Orlando Solar Bears season tickets and 18 game plans. 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/

Since beginning operations in November of 2011, the Solar Bears have helped raise over $500,000 for the Central Florida community. To read the Solar Bears Report to the Community, click here.