NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX – Cam Clarke became the second player in Brahmas history selected in the National Hockey League Draft on Saturday, selected 136th overall by the Boston Bruins.
The defensemen totaled 50 points in 59 regular season games; leading all North American Hockey League defensemen in both assists and points. On top of his statistical achievements, Clarke was also named the NAHL Defensemen of the Year.
“My family and I were just sitting and watching and I saw it come up on the screen, and it was unreal. It was like you just scored an overtime winner. Everyone started jumping around and it was just an awesome moment,” Clarke said.
Boston's newest product was one of just six players selected by the Bruins in the draft and joins Boston University's Charlie McAvoy and Univeristy of Minneosta's Ryan Lindgren as the only defensemen taken by the organization.
“We’re really happy for him and his family. It’s just a feather in the cap and shows what guys can do when they get an opportunity,” Brahmas Head Coach Dan Wildfong said. “Cam played really well for us here and took his game to another level, so we are thrilled about today’s selection.”
#15 will be playing his college hockey for Ferris State University in the fall, members of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA). Cam is the first player with ties to the WCHA ties to be selected in the National Hockey League Draft.
Assistant Coach Jeff Potter said of the situation, “We’re thrilled to see Cam taken today by the Bruins. He’s a kid who a couple of years ago, or maybe even a year ago, no one thought this would have happened to, so it’s obviously a fantastic story for him, our organization, and the North American Hockey League.”
Clarke joins 2014-15 Brahmas goaltender Jake Kupsky, who was selected 193rd overall by the San Jose Sharks in the 2015 NHL Draft.
"I wouldn't be here without my time in Brahmaland. I kind of came out of nowhere and the Brahmas gave me a platform to showcase what I've got. Like I've said over and over again, the coaching staff is unbelievable. Coach Potter and Coach Wildfong really do a great job and I was lucky enough to play with a group of great guys, and I wouldn't be here without them," Clarke concluded with.
For more information on Clarke’s selection in the 2016 NHL Draft, stay tuned to “Lone Star Brahmas” on Facebook and “@LoneStarBrahmas” on Twitter. To inquire about season tickets for 2016-17, call 817-336-4ICE.