Alpena announces first tender for '06-07

As the Alpena IceDiggers look to improve and grow in the 2006-2007 season, they are happy to announce their first commitment for next season as well.

Defenseman Chad Billins, from Marysville, will be donning an IceDiggers jersey next year as coach-GM Kenny Miller makes the first tender signing of his NAHL head coaching career.

"Chad is a very skilled defenseman who will definitely step in and become an impact player right away," Miller said. "He's the type of player that we are looking to add to our team for the '06-07 season. We are very happy that Chad has decided on Alpena."

"I am excited for the chance," Billins said. "And thankful for the opportunity to play at a higher level."

Billins, who turns 17 in May, has played 30 games this year for the Little Caesars midgets and has eight goals among 28 points since joining the team in early November.