July 16, 2009

Callahan Heads West, Joins Sharks

SAN JOSE -- San Jose Sharks Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Wilson announced today that the club has signed former Yale defenseman Joe Callahan to a one-year contract. Per club policy, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Callahan, 26, made his NHL debut in 2008-09 appearing in 18 games with the New York Islanders posting two assists (0-2=2) and four penalty minutes. He was recalled from Bridgeport (AHL) seven times over the course of the season and posted 13 points (4-9=13) in 56 games with the Sound Tigers.

He has appeared in 367 career American Hockey League games posting 72 points (11-61=72) and 328 penalty minutes.

“Joe is a poised defenseman that is a good puck mover,” said Wilson. “He is an experienced professional that brings a great deal of competitiveness to our organization.”

The six-foot-three, 220-pound native of Brockton, Massachusetts was originally selected by Phoenix in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft (3rd round, 70th overall) following three seasons with Yale University (ECAC).