By Matt Stefano
The Soo Thunderbirds have announced today they have signed 1998 birth year forwards Darian and Drake Pilon.
Last season with the Batchewana Attack, Darian had 18 goals and 46 points through 35 games along with 107 penalty minutes. The Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario native stands 5’10 and 170 lbs.
Drake, who also played last season with the CIHL champion Batchewana Attack, had an identical 18 goals along with 44 points through 36 games and collected 128 penalty minutes. The Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario native stands 5’10 and 175 lbs.
During the month of June, the Sudbury Wolves have also acquired the Pilons rights through Ontario Hockey League entry waivers.
“Drake and Darian are two players who we targeted this Summer and who will bring a high level of compete to our team,” said T-Birds general manager Jamie Henderson. “They will make it difficult on opponents to play against them and are looking to come in and develop as players to reach the next level.”
Darian and Drake Pilon become the first twin brothers to play on the Soo Thunderbirds since Laurie and Geoff Gieni did back in the 2010-2011 season.
BARBEAU TRADED:
In other news, the Soo Thunderbirds have dealt 1997 birth year defenceman Andrew Barbeau to the GOJHL’s Chatham Maroons.
Barbeau, who singed with the T-Birds during last season, had a goal and 3 helpers through 15 games with the Michigan Warriors before coming to the T-Birds, scoring 1 goal and 5 points through 26 games along with 23 penalty minutes.
He also scored the game winner in game 5 of the NOJHL finals to help the T-Birds clinch the Copeland Cup McNamara Trophy in a 5-3 win over Cochrane on April 19th.
“We want to thank Andrew and his family and wish him well as he continues to earn a spot in Erie, said T-Birds general manager Jamie Henderson. “Andrew played a large role in helping us reach the RBC Cup last season and we wish him continued success.”
Barbeau also attended Erie Otters camp this Summer as a free agent.
