Black Bears Select Three from Free Agent Camp

This weekend saw the Wolves and Black Bears come together for the first time this season for a free agent camp. The first camp of its kind saw a number of solid efforts on the ice and gave Binghamton Coach James Henry a chance to pick up three new players to bring to main camp in October.

Coach Henry told media and attendees “We would like to thank all of our attendees to this year’s Wolves & Black Bears Pro Showcase. It was an intense and competitive weekend, which gave both organizations an opportunity to evaluate a solid group of free agents.”

After a strong showing, the following player received an invite to the first ever Black Bears main camp, Forwards David Pickell and Chris Ciolek, and Defensemen Colan Fitzgerald.

Pickell, a 23-year-old Center/Left Winger from Des Plaines, IL, finished his career at Lewis University, a division two collegiate program, with 30 goals and 11 assists. David is a left-handed shot as well which gives coach Henry matchup options at the center position. When asked about his selection Coach Henry had this to say “Pickell is a high energy, competitive Forward with great offensive talent. His strong work ethic earned himself an opportunity with our team. We look forward to having him join us for camp in October.”

Ciolek, a 23-year-old forward from Orchard Park, NY, comes to the Black Bears after playing two years of collegiate hockey at Worcester State in Division three and then transferring to the ACHA and Iowa State. At Iowa State last season in only 21 games Chris was able to put up 6 points, a goal and 5 assists, as well as 20 penalty minutes. Coach Henry had nothing, but positive things to say “Ciolek was impressive throughout the weekend, displaying his combination of size and skill. Although we extended a PTO after the camp, Ciolek will be returning to Iowa State to continue his academic and athletic career. The Black Bears support this decision and wish Chris the best of luck.”

Fitzgerald, a 22-year-old defenseman out of Burr Ridge, IL, just completed his final year at Indiana University. In his three years as a Hoosier Colan scored an impressive 21 goals and 48 assists. Through the course of the weekend a lot stood out to Coach Henry and he had this to say “Fitzgerald, is a strong skating Defensemen, with terrific puck handling skills. With the importance of puck possession and mobile Defensemen in today’s game, Colan will be a great addition to our already strong defensive core.”

With the roster taking shape the Black Bears are getting closer to camp here in the Southern Tier. The Black Bears are looking forward to their first season in Binghamton and are getting ready for a late October start. Season tickets for the 2021-2022 season are now on sale, call 607-722-7367 to save your seat today!