JOEL RECHLICZ RETURNS TO CHOCOLATETOWN

April 2, 2013

 
HERSHEY, Pa.– The HERSHEY BEARS announced today that the organization has acquired right wing Joel Rechlicz from the Phoenix Coyotes in exchange for forward Matt Clackson.  The announcement was made by BEARS President/GM Doug Yingst.
 
Rechlicz, 25, returns to Chocolatetown after appearing in 72 games for the BEARS from 2010-2012.  Rechlicz recorded two goals, one assist and 399 penalty minutes with HERSHEY over the two seasons.
 
The 6-4, 220-pound native of Brookfield, WI has played in a total of 158 AHL games with Albany, Bridgeport, HERSHEY and most recently Portland, posting two goals, two assists and 794 penalty minutes.  Rechlicz also has 26 games of NHL experience to his credit, with the New York Islanders and Washington Capitals.  He made his Capitals debut on January 31, 2012 against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
 
Rechlicz was named the BEARS’ IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year at the conclusion of the 2011-12 season, for his outstanding contributions to the central Pennsylvania community.
 
Clackson recorded one goal, two assists and 36 penalty minutes in 19 games with HERSHEY this season.
 
The BEARS will visit the Syracuse Crunch for a 7:30 PM matchup on Friday, April 5 at the Oncenter War Memorial.   The two teams then face off next Saturday, April 6 at 7:00 PM at GIANT Center.  The first 3,000 fans will receive a BEARS logo golf ball courtesy of Fairview Golf Course.  Tickets for the two remaining BEARS home games may be purchased at the GIANT Center box office, by calling (717) 508-BEAR or online at TicketMaster.com.