Bernard returns to Thunder

The Perth Thunder are happy to announce that Canadian forward Jessyko Bernard will be returning to Perth in 2017 for his second straight season with the Thunder.

Bernard tallied 44 (17G-27A) points in 26 games last season for the Thunder, including a club-record 24-game scoring streak, and the big-hitting forward says he’s looking forward to returning to Australia.

“I’m excited about coming back for a second season,” Bernard said. “Last year was a fun and successful regular season, but we didn’t achieve our goal of bringing the Goodall Cup back to Perth.

“Going in to the 2017 campaign, my goal is to hoist that Cup with the great group of players and staff that make up the Thunder organisation.”

Bernard has been playing in France during the Australian off season, tallying 20 points (10G-10A) in 24 games with Brest of the France2 league.

In coming back to Perth, Bernard said it wasn’t only about taking care of unfinished business, but maintaining a winning culture among the players on the team.

“I’m looking forward to being on Aussie soil and seeing the fellas,” Bernard said. “As long as we’re winning, I’m content.”

Bernard will arrive in Australia in early April to join the team late in pre-season training. You can secure your season tickets here to watch Jessyko in action at all 14 home games in 2017.