Damon to play pro hockey in Finland

Bangor native Derek Damon, who racked up 51 goals and 60 assists in his 160-game men’s hockey career at the University of Maine, has signed a one-year deal with Assat Pori of the Finnish Elite League.

The 6-foot, 195-pound Damon, a center, was the 10th-leading scorer in the ECHL this past season with the Florida Everblades as he scored 25 goals and dished out 50 assists for 75 points in just 51 games.

The nine scorers ahead of him, including former Black Bear teammate Josh Soares (7th, 36 & 45 in 61 games with the Alaska Aces), played in at least 10 more games.

The 27-year-old Damon also played 15 games for the Albany River Rats of the American Hockey League, picking up two goals and three assists.

Damon left for Finland Tuesday and couldn’t be reached for comment.

“He’s really excited and I’m sure he’ll do well,” said Maine coach Tim Whitehead. “His advisor had discussions with quite a few AHL teams, but there was nothing concrete. This is a wonderful opportunity for Derek. From all accounts, the Swedish and Finnish elite leagues are better than the AHL.”

“He’s such a strong, two-way player, he’ll put up good numbers for them,” added Whitehead. “And the exciting thing is that when he decides to come back, he’ll have Elite League experience, so he should land a real good spot back here.”

Damon played for the Everblades in his first full pro season in 2006-07, collecting 20 & 28 in 56 games.

lmahoney@bangordailynews.net

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