WHEELING, WV – The Wheeling Nailers, the ‘AA’ affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, have signed defensemen Chris Snavely, it was announced today by team President Jim Brooks. As per club policy, no further terms were disclosed.

“Chris gives our team speed and experience on the blueline, which are both important in today’s game.” Said Coach Greg Puhalski.

Snavely, 25, recorded 18 points (4 goals, 14 assists) and 38 penalty minutes in 57 games for the Nailers last season.  A staple on the Nailers blue line, he was one of just four defensemen to play in over 50 games for Wheeling. 

His successful rookie season was preceded by an NCAA national championship while at Michigan State in his senior year.  It was the Spartans first NCAA hockey championship in 21 years.  A native of Lancaster, PA, Snavely played in 132 career games in his four seasons at MSU.  He scored seven goals while adding 36 assists and 68 PIM.

Prior to his collegiate career, Snavely spent four years with the Cedar Rapids Roughriders of the United States Hockey League.  He holds the Cedar Rapids franchise record for most career games played (212), beginning his junior hockey career when he was just 14 years old. 

He was also a member of the 1999 U.S. Under-18 Select Team that won a silver medal at the Four Nations Cup in Prague, Czech Republic. 

Wheeling Nailers 2008-09 ticket packages are on sale now. Be sure to ask about our 2 for 1 season ticket offer. Kids season tickets as low as $180 per seat. 2008-09 V.I.P. Parking Passes are now available for just $110. For more information call the Nailers office at 304-234-4625 or online at www.wheelingnailers.com