NHLer Jim Vandermeer Returns To Belfast For 2016/17

The Stena Line Belfast Giants are pleased to announce the return of Jim Vandermeer for the 2016/17 Elite League season. Vandermeer, a 6’1” Defenceman with nine seasons of NHL experience, joined the Giants in February 2016 and quickly became a fans favourite with his displays on the blueline.

The Canadian played 482 NHL games in total for the Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Calgary Flames, Phoenix Coyotes, Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks.

Before arriving in Northern Ireland last season, the 36 year old spent the 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons in the Swiss A League with the Kloten Flyers and played with current Giants Head Coach Derrick Walser for Team Canada’s Spengler Cup team in both 2013/14 and 2014/15.

Jim Vandermeer spoke exclusively to Aaron Kernohan from A View From The Bridge about his return to the Giants for his first full season in Belfast:

"It is exciting to be back in Belfast, I really enjoyed my time there last season. I want to make the biggest impact that I can, have a really good season, play my game and help the team do better than we did last season. There is always a time and a place to get rowdy & drop the gloves and part of my game is playing physical and steady defence."

• Local