Kenai River tenders Fury's Malliaris

The Kenai River Brown Bears have signed U18 Chicago Fury forward George Malliaris to a tender for next season.

“We need a go-to guy upfront and George definitely has the potential to be that guy,” said Brown Bears coach-GM Mike Flanagan. “His skills and speed should open up our game, especially at home with an Olympic-sized surface.”

Malliaris has primarily played forward this season, but lately has found himself on the Fury’s blue line because of injuries. 

“George has been solid for us this year,” said Fury coach Nick Pollos. “We went through a stretch where we were without two d-men and I asked George to give it a try on the blue line and he didn’t blink an eye saying, ‘Anything to help the team.’”

Malliaras’ quick feet and puck skills got him noticed as the season progressed and the opportunity with the Brown Bears was the perfect fit.

“George can create with his speed and is a solid forechecker to compliment his puck skills,” Pollos added.  “He will be an asset to the Brown Bears organization.

“George plays on all special teams for us both as a forward and a defenseman. I’m very proud of his decision to play for Coach Flanagan and the Brown Bears.”

The Chicago Fury competes in the Midwest Elite Hockey League, one of the top Tier I AAA hockey leagues in the United States. Malliaris is the second Fury player to sign with the Brown Bears, joining current Fury teammate Nick Gawron.

“Needless to say George is a much welcomed addition to our nucleus as we move forward and we are happy to have him,” said Flanagan.