Kokkonen Returns as a Mustang

The James Melbourne Mustangs are pleased to announce the signing of Finnish foward Anton Kokkonen (178cm, 86kg) for 2017. Anton will be wearing #56 for the Mustangs.

Anton is no stranger to the AIHL, previously playing for the CBR Brave during their inaugural season in 2014, where he scored 59 points in 25 games. At the end of that season he was awarded the Fans Choice Award by Brave fans.

Anton is looking forward to being back in Australia.
"My first season in the AIHL was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed my time there. I kind of started to miss that time a little bit and wanted to come back there. I really loved Australian hockey, the people there and that beautiful country."

"It's good that I have already been there for one season so I know a bit about each team. When the Mustangs told me that they were interested I didn't have to think twice. It's a great team, Melbourne is my favorite city in Australia and it's a team that can fight for the Cup. I also talked a lot with Jamie Bourke and he convinced me that this was the best decision."

"I'm really excited to come back to the AIHL. I'll be trying to help our team to win games every way that I can. I'm more of a playmaker type of centre who creates opportunities for my team mates and I want to bring a more offensive game on the ice.

Head Coach Michael Flaherty said of the signing "I'm pleased to have Anton as part of our team for this year. I'm confident that his playmaking ability and his previous experience playing in the AIHL will be a great asset to the Mustangs in 2017."

Anton watched the Mustangs win the cup in 2014, so is planning on ending this season the same way we did back then - because it was not a good feeling being on the other side of it!

"I remember that the Mustangs had great and loud fans, so I cant wait to meet you all. Hopefully we can give you all some great moments this year and also inspire young kids in Australia about ice hockey. See you soon!"

Anton will be making his Mustangs debut when we take on his old team the CBR Brave at O'Brien Group Arena in our home opener weekend on April 22 and 23. Get your tickets from Ticketmaster now!

See Anton's career stats at Eliteprospects