Bear Bites | Week of Jan. 8

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears extended their winning streak to a season-long, eight games before the Wheeling Nailers got the better of them on Saturday night. With the recent success, the Bears have climbed into second place in the South Division of the ECHL.

THIS WEEK’S GAMES:

• Monday, January 8, 7:00 p.m., vs. Wheeling Nailers
• Wednesday, January 10, 7:05 p.m. at Greenville Swamp Rabbits
• Friday, January 12, 7:05 p.m., at Greenville Swamp Rabbits
• Saturday, January 13, 6:05 p.m., at South Carolina Stingrays

The Orlando Solar Bears, along with VyStar Credit Union, have announced the launch of a co-branded debit card, available now for all VyStar Credit Union members.

Fans can get a Solar Bears debit card when they open a VyStar account with a minimum balance of $5 at any branch location. They can also apply for membership online at apply.vystarcu.org but will need to visit a branch to get a Solar Bears card. Current members can request a co-branded card by visiting a branch, calling 800-445-6289 or speaking to a VyChat representative at www.vystarcu.org.

VyStar player appearances are back! 

Come meet some Solar Bears on Thursday, February 8 at VyStar Credit Union's Altamonte Springs Branch! VyStar will be raffling off two (2) signed Solar Bears jerseys. To enter, you must scan a QR Code that will be on site. You must be present to win.

Where: 151 N. SR 434, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
When: 1:45-2:45 pm

AT A GLANCE:
SEASON RECORD: 18-10-1-1 (.633)
LAST WEEK’S RECORD: 2-1-0-0
RECORD IN LAST 10 GAMES: 8-2-0-0
EASTERN CONFERENCE PLACE: 3rd of 14

ACTIVE LEADERS:
TOP SCORER: Mitchell Hoelscher – 27 points
MOST GOALS: Brayden Low – 13 goals
MOST ASSISTS: Ben Carroll – 17 assists
PIM LEADER: Jimmy Mazza – 38 PIM
PLUS-MINUS LEADER: Jimmy Mazza, Ben Carroll - +12

LAST WEEK’S GAMES:
Wednesday, January 3 vs Jacksonville: 6-3 W
The Solar Bears were led by veteran forward Alexandre Fortin, who had his biggest night in his ECHL career with five points (2g-3a). Ryan Cox (2g), Brayden Low (1g, 1a), and Tyler Bird (1g, 1a) all contributed with multi-point games. Colten Ellis made 32 saves in the victory.

Friday, January 5 vs Wheeling: 4-1 W
Led by a Jesse Jacques hat trick, the Solar Bears extended its winning streak to eight games with a 4-1 win Friday night. Alex Fortin added two assists, while Brandon Halverson made 33 saves to earn his fourth straight victory.

Saturday, January 6 vs Wheeling: 5-2 L
The Nailers snapped the Solar Bears winning streak Saturday night, with a 5-2 decision at Kia Center. Rookie Evan Vierling tallied three assists, while Tanner Laderoute and Jordan Frasca scored a goal and assist, apiece.