It's official: Bemis signs with Whalers

The Plymouth Whalers have announced the signing of 16-year-old defenseman Josh Bemis.

Bemis, who was selected by the Whalers in the 14th round (273rd overall) of the 2006 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection, originally committed to play at Western Michigan University.

“We had Josh real high on our list,” Plymouth coach-GM Mike Vellucci said. “We are excited that he will continue his education with us while playing in the No. 1 development league for the NHL.”

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Bemis played last season for the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League, where he tallied two assists and 42 penalty minutes in 38 games as the league’s youngest player. He describes himself as a “smart defenseman” that patterns his play after Nick Lidstrom.

“I think joining the Whalers is a great opportunity for me,” said Bemis, a Clarkston native. “I’ve attended games in the past and am excited to be a part of it.”