The Hershey Bears announced today that the club has signed defenseman Dean Arsene to an AHL contract for the 2005-06 season. Per club policy, the terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Arsene played in a career-best 56 AHL games in 2004-05, amassing six points and 140 penalty minutes. He earned the Milton W. Garland Memorial Trophy last season as Hershey’s best defenseman.
“We’re very happy that Dean is back in the fold with us for 2005-06.” said Bears President/GM Doug Yingst. “He is a leader both on and off the ice that can help us be successful this season, and he is also a tremendous asset to the community.”
In addition to his numerous on-ice achievements, Arsene was one of the most visible Hershey players involved in community relations in 2004-05. He also joined the Bears Radio Network during the final seven weeks of the season following a season-ending injury on Feb. 26, providing color commentary and giving his insights.
In addition to two seasons with Hershey, Arsene also played in the American Hockey League with the Hartford Wolf Pack during the 2002-03 season. He brings 128 games of AHL experience into 2005-06.
