Got a note from Brent Henley today that he has informed the Komets he will not be returning this season. He's going to try out with Norfolk of the American Hockey League and if that doesn't work out he has other opportunities in the Northeast.
"I cannot say enough good things about the organization and wanted to give them the opportunity to fill my veteran spot as soon as possible," Henley said. "I have nothing but fond memories of my time in Fort Wayne and after speaking with David and Al hopefully have left the door open to returning for a future season. My knee is completely healed and I am in the best physical condition that I have been in for the past two years and look forward to a strong showing in Norfolk."
Some AHL teams have suggested that Henley play in the ECHL so they can call him up quickly.
"This is something he wants to do and we're fine with it," Komets general manager David Franke said. "We're disappointed but maybe next year he'll be back in Fort Wayne, who knows?"
Franke said the Komets will not fill their last veteran spot right away, waiting to see what becomes available later to fill a need. He said keeping the veteran spot open may allow the Komets to field a 20-man roster to start the season compared to a 19-man roster they were planning.
The Komets have also added goaltenders Sebastien Laplante and Tim Haun along with rookie forwards Rick Varone, Adam Shirley, Adam Sinewitz and Roy Stevens to the training camp roster. That gives them 28 players on the roster.
Sebastien, 27, will be entering his seventh pro season. He appeared in the CHL the last three seasons, splitting last year with Colorado and Wichita of the Central Hockey League. Sebastien totaled 45 CHL games last season and a 21-18-2 record. The netminder finished the season with a 2.77 goals-against average with Colorado. Sebastien began his career with Roanoke in the ECHL in 2002 and was selected by Los Angeles in round nine of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.
Haun, 28, topped SPHL goaltenders last season during the regular season with a 2.45 goals-against average and .920 save percentage in 23 games. The rookie goaltender participated in two seasons with Augustana University of the ACAC from 2004 thru 2006 and appeared in games with Belgium in European play during 2006-07.
Comments
First of all, I appreciate the updates Blake. I also appreciate you coming out of your way to try and get my book signed. I will find you this season. I will bring the pen to. Once again, I apoligize for my absence when you were trying to go out of your way for me. Had some issues for the last couple months.
As far as Henley, he will be missed, but it's a postion I hope we can find a replacement. I wish all the luck in the world to Brent, but the Franke's and Coach Sims have done a great job bring in talent. It should be very very interesting early on with the team Muskegon has brought in!!!
Once again, sorry Blake. I appreciate all your attempts to contact me. It falls on my shoulders!
Not a problem, Jared. We'll get it worked out.