Checkers Fortify AHL Roster Ahead of New Season
The Charlotte Checkers announced this week that they have inked four players to one‑year, one‑way AHL contracts, a move that underscores the club’s intent to remain competitive in the upcoming campaign.
Veteran defenseman Mitch Vande Sompel, a 29‑year‑old native of London, Ontario, returns to the Checkers after a season in which he appeared in 36 games and logged a career‑high 347 AHL appearances across Bridgeport, Colorado, Chicago and Charlotte. Drafted by the New York Islanders in the third round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Vande Sompel brings a wealth of experience and a right‑handed shot that should stabilize the blue line.
Joining him is forward Will Bitten, 27, who hails from Ottawa, Ontario. Bitten’s 180 points in 346 AHL games with the Iowa Wild and Springfield Thunderbirds reflect a consistent offensive output, while his stint in the KHL last season highlights his adaptability on the international stage. The Montreal Canadiens originally selected him in the third round of the 2016 draft, adding a layer of NHL pedigree to his profile.
Goaltender Vinnie Purpura, a 27‑year‑old from Lemont, Illinois, capped his previous season with the Savannah Ghost Pirates by guiding the club to its inaugural postseason berth in the ECHL. His performance between the pipes has been praised for its poise under pressure, and the Checkers hope his presence will bolster depth at the net.
The youngest of the group, defenseman Luca Fantilli, 23, comes from Nobleton, Ontario, and arrives after a four‑year tenure at the University of Michigan where he served as team captain. Fantilli’s leadership helped the Chicago Steel capture the Clark Cup in 2021‑22, and his brother Adam Fantilli, a center with the Columbus Blue Jackets, adds a familial connection that could further integrate him into the organization’s culture.
A Blend of Experience and Youth
The signings illustrate a calculated blend of seasoned AHL veterans and promising young talent. By retaining players who have already proven themselves in the league, the Checkers aim to preserve continuity while injecting fresh energy from those who have excelled at the collegiate and minor‑professional levels.
General Manager Mike Boughner emphasized that the contracts reflect the team’s commitment to building a roster capable of contending for the Calder Cup, stating that each player brings a distinct skill set that aligns with the club’s tactical objectives.
Fans can expect to see these newcomers integrated into the lineup during the preseason exhibitions, with coaching staff already experimenting with pairings to maximize chemistry. The excitement surrounding the roster moves reflects a broader optimism that the Checkers are poised for a strong showing in the upcoming AHL season.