WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
KALAMAZOO, MI – Defenseman Ben Wilson, who was named the K-Wings Defenseman of the Year last season, has signed to return to the team for the 2016-17 season.
Last season, Wilson played in 54 games where he had 7 assists and 76 minutes in penalties and a +3.
Returning for his fourth season, Wilson said he keeps coming back because he likes Kalamazoo and the teams the Bootland assembles.
“I keep coming back to Kalamazoo because of the guys we have in the dressing room,” Wilson said. “Really like the core group of guys.”
During his previous three seasons in Kalamazoo, Wilson has been hit with the injury bug, which he says is out of his control.
“I do everything I can in the off-season to stay healthy. I have a great trainer and rotten luck. Most of my injuries are non preventable”, WIlson said.
Head coach Nick Bootland has high praise for Wilson.
““Ben Wilson is tough as nails,” Bootland said. “He’s a great skater and knows how to stick up for his teammates. He’s a high-character player who competes at an outstanding level.”
WIth the K-Wings recent move to the Western Conference, Wilson said that each game becomes more important.
“Divisional games and conference games become much more important,” he said. “Only playing certain teams a few times makes two point nights become four point nights.”
Aside from staying healthy, Wilson has a few other goals for the upcoming season.
“My goals for the season are to be a plus player and a difference maker every night,” Wilson said. “And of course to win the Kelly cup.”
By: Mark C. McGlothlen
