Binghamton Senators Set For Saturday Season Opener

     The Binghamton Senators hope to erase any memories of last year as they prepare for their regular season opener set for this Saturday, October 13 when they host the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at 7:05 PM at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena.  After capturing the Calder Cup Championship for the first time for any Binghamton team two seasons ago, the Sens failed to make the playoffs last year.

     New Coach Luke Richardson brings renewed excitement to the team in his first head coaching duties.  A veteran of two decades in the National Hockey League, Richardson brings a wealth of hockey knowledge with him.  Assisted by veteran coach Steve Stirling, Richardson says he is anxious to get the regualr season underway.

     The Sens finished their three-game exhibition schedule undefeated giving fans a taste of the exciting play they witnessed during the march to the Calder Cup.  With the  lockout continuing the Sens and all other American Hockey League teams have some players who are good enough to play in the  NHL during a normal season.  This will improve the quality of play all around the league.

     Binghamton is hoping for a breakout season for goaltender Robin Lehner who keyed the Sens to the Calder Cup title two years ago.  Lehner spent part of last season with Ottawa and hopes that experience will pay dividends this time around. 

     Defense should also be a strong point for Binghamton.  As a former NHL defenseman Richardson has been emphasizing that part of the game.  Eric Gryba, 6-4, 222; Jared Cowen, 6-5, 230; Ben Blood, 6-4, 232, give the B-Sens excellent size on the blueline.  This season marks the 40th anniversary of professional hockey in Binghamton.