After winning the Central Hockey League’s coveted Ray Miron President’s Cup in May of 2008, the Sundogs have struggled to return to championship form. A lackluster 27-32-5 record last season failed to earn a playoff berth and thus far, there have been few bright spots this season. With just six wins in 20 contests, the teams sits in last place in the Southern Conference and second to last place in the league with 14 points.
While hardly a positive backdrop to celebrate a major career milestone for one of their players, the Sundogs nonetheless plan to honor veteran defenseman and player/alternate coach Chris Bartolone, who is scheduled to play his 1,000th career professional game on Sunday, December 13th on the road against the Tulsa Oilers.
Bartolone, 39, will be recognized during a special pre-game ceremony on December 16th as the team returns to Tim’s
A native of Clinton Township, Michigan, Bartolone spent three years in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League putting up 194 points (35 G, 159 A) in 196 games played. He began his professional career during the 1993-94 season with Milan Saima SG in
In 2006, Bartolone signed with the expansion Sundogs and finished second among CHL defensemen in scoring with 66 points (13 G, 53 A).
During the 2007-08 championship season, he finished tied for second among CHL defensemen in scoring with 60 points (18 G, 42 A). His 42 assists ranked second among CHL defensemen. He also led CHL defensemen with 12 power play goals. In the playoffs, he led CHL defensemen in scoring with 19 points (5 G, 14 A), including three power play goals and 12 power play assists in 17 games.
Last season, Bartolone finished tied for fourth in scoring and third in assists among CHL defensemen with 52 points (11 G, 41 A).
He ranks first all-time amongst Sundogs players in games played (240), assists (167), points (220) and shots (793) and third all-time in multiple-point games (26).
“He’s still one of the smartest and most productive defensemen in the league,” Sundogs Head Coach Marco Pietroniro said. “He’s the complete professional. He’s been a leader both on and off the ice as team captain and has showcased his knowledge and skill this season as player/assistant coach.”
Having the veteran defenseman at his side has been a tremendous benefit for Pietroniro and as the two work to salvage the remainder of the season, there’s no doubt in the minds of the Sundogs faithful, they have a winner in Chris Bartolone.
Contact the author at robert.keith@prohockeynews.com
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