Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Brahmas add Youngclaus

Fifth year defenseman adds grit to blue line

Phil Youngclaus was signed to the Texas Brahmas 2010-11 roster on Tuesday afternoon according to Pointstreak. Youngclaus' addition fills a couple of holes left by Sean Hurley (who was placed on the 10-day IR on Saturday) and Nathan Saunders, who hasn't played since Friday night's game in Allen.

Youngclaus, 27, played four seasons with the University of Vermont (ECAC) before going pro in 2006-07, signing with the Richmond Renegades (SPHL). He put up 22 points (6 G, 16 A) and 100 penalty minutes in 56 games played there.

Phil Youngclaus

The following season, Youngclaus moved to the ECHL, playing with the Pensacola Ice Pilots where he talled 14 points (1 G, 13 A) and 66 PIM in 70 games played.

In 2008-09, Youngclaus played 11 games with the Gwinnett Gladiators (ECHL) before a knee injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season. After spending his free time working hard in the gym, Youngclaus managed to get himself healthy enough to return to the Gladiators line-up at the end of the regular season heading into the 2009 Kelly Cup Playoffs (where he posted an assist in five post-season games).

He signed with the Dayton Gems (IHL) coming into the 2009-10 season. After 36 games and 20 points tallied (4 G, 16 A), he returned to the Gladiators for 31 games, adding an additional seven assists.

The Methuen, Massachusetts native had re-signed with the Gladiators, but his return to pro hockey was delayed due to injuries received in an auto accident in August.

Photo Credit: Gwinnett Gladiators

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