They have, however, signed one of a triplet, from Beaufort City, Quebec, in 24 year old Jonathan Bernier who comes in from Central Hockey League side Wichita Thunder.
He becomes the first defenceman and third import out of 11 to sign for the Stingrays 2008/2009 EIHL campaign. 6'2 Bernier is, unsuprisingly considering Strachans comments to the Hull Daily Mail, a "bruising" defenceman who is known better for his intimidating style and big hits than his skating prowess or skill on the puck. However it is undoubted that Bernier will be one of the most physical defencemen that fans in Hull have ever seen, very much a physical presence on the blueline.In his first professional season, with the Arizona Sundogs, Bernier recorded 5 assists and 226 PIMs as he played in all 64 games for the CHL team whilst this past season, which he split between Arizona and Wichita, he played in 56 games recording 3 goals and 1 assist.
Bernier, who will join the Stingrays for just his third professional season, has recorded a combined 3 goals, 6 assists and an astounding 448 penalty minutes mainly as a result of the 66 fighting majors he has accrued.
In those 66 fights he has fought a few familiar names to the UK; names like Ryan VandenBussche, Jeff Ewakso, Dennis Maxwell, Stingray target Adam Stefishen and Mike Prpich as well as former Stingrays enforcer Simon Rizk as a junior.
Coach Rick Strachan will hope that given increased ice time, and with a possible pairing on 2nd or 3rd line defence, that Bernier will be able to contribute both offensively, defensively and with his fists during his time with the Stingrays.Bernier in action for Arizona in 2006-07.
