On Tuesday August 11th, the Allen Americans announced announced the signing of Canadian centreman Patrick Watling. A product of Sault Ste. Marie, Watling spent three seasons playing between his hometown Greyhounds as well as the Guelph Storm.
Watling has spent the past two seasons with the UNB Reds in Canada West. There, he scored 11 goals and 27 assist for 38 points. He managed to do so in 44 games. Prior to committing to New Brunswick, Watling saw significant hockey experience, but then took a year off in 2017-18.
In three seasons with the Orlando Solar Bears, Watling scored 30 goals and 59 assists in 101 games. This made for 89 points while also tallying 74 penalty minutes. The 2014-15 season saw Watling debut in the American Hockey League. There, he played 29 games for the Toronto Marlies under Sheldon Keefe.
The 26-year-old six-foot centreman was born and raised in Northern Ontario. As a college hockey alumni and a veteran of two pro leagues, Watling should bring depth and character to the ECHL and the Americans offence. In a statement from head coach Steve Martinson with regards to the team’s newest signing on Tuesday, he said, “Patrick will bring speed, skill and experience to our lineup. We are excited to get our team back on the ice this December.”