Solar Bears leading goal scorer Joe Perry back for 2017-18

Forward set Orlando’s single-season record with 35 goals

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears have announced that the club has agreed to terms with forward Joe Perry for the 2017-18 season.

“We are extremely pleased to have Joe back for another season,” Solar Bears head coach Drake Berehowsky said. “He brings a high level of competitiveness and leadership to our team. We look forward to seeing him continue to score goals for the Solar Bears.”

Perry, 27, enjoyed a breakout season for Orlando in 2016-17, as he set career-highs in every major statistical category, logging 54 points (35g-19a) and 71 penalty minutes in 70 games. His 35 goals led the Solar Bears and shattered Mickey Lang’s franchise record of 27 goals set during the 2013-14 season. In addition, Perry’s goal-scoring output was tied for the third-highest total in the ECHL. Perry’s 70 games also led Orlando during the regular season. He added four points (1g-3a) and two penalty minutes in seven contests for the Solar Bears during the 2017 Kelly Cup Playoffs.

“I’m really excited to be returning for my second season with the Solar Bears,” Perry said. “Last season was a step in the right direction for the team, and we will be looking to go even further this year. I can’t wait to get back into the Amway Center and play in front of the best fans in the league!”

In 168 ECHL games, the 6-foot-2, 215-pound forward has amassed 123 points (74g-49a) and 137 penalty minutes with Orlando, Fort Wayne, Alaska, and Quad City. He has also skated in six American Hockey League games with the Iowa Wild, notching one assist and 11 penalty minutes.

Prior to turning pro, Perry played from 2010-14 with Division III powerhouse St. Norbert College, where he was part of three national championship squads. The Nanaimo, British Columbia native finished his time with the Green Knights by accumulating 106 points (50g-56a) and 91 penalty minutes in 115 career games.

The Orlando Solar Bears are the proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL’s Toronto Marlies, and play all of their home games at the ARS.com Rink at Amway Center, the 2012 Street and Smith’s Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year.

Full Season Ticket Memberships for the 2017-18 season are on sale now. Purchase an Orlando Solar Bears Full Season Ticket Membership for as little as $440 today! Click here or call (407) 951-8200 for more information.

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