The Stena Line Belfast Giants are pleased to announce the return of defenceman Jim Vandermeer for the 2017/18 season. Vandermeer, a 6’1” Defenceman with nine seasons of NHL experience, returns for a third season in Belfast after joining the Giants in February 2016.
Head Coach Adam Keefe has appointed Vandermeer as a Player/Assistant Coach for the 2017/18 season, joining Brandon Benedict on the coaching team.
The Canadian played 482 NHL games in total for the Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Calgary Flames, Phoenix Coyotes, Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks.
Vandermeer quickly became a fans favourite with his displays on the blueline and was named by the Elite League on the First All-Star team in 2016/17. Last season he posted 8 goals and 17 assists, good for 25 points and 87 penalty minutes in 50 games.
Before joining the Giants, the 37 year old spent the 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons in the Swiss A League with the Kloten Flyers and played for Team Canada’s Spengler Cup team in both years.
Adam Keefe, Head Coach, on Vandermeer’s return to Belfast:
“I am excited to bring Jim Vandermeer back to Belfast. I know our fans love his style of play and the size he adds to our blueline.”
“Jim brings a lot of NHL experience to our locker room and he will be a great fit for the Player/Assistant Coach role.“
[fts_facebook type=group id=839288512750240 posts=6]
Discover more from LoveBelfast
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
