Paul Szczechura

Paul Szczechura (pronounced Shea-hura) (born November 30, 1985) is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League (AHL).

Playing career
Paul grew up in his hometown of Brantford, Ontario playing minor hockey for both the Brantford Saints and Brant Bandits AAA hockey programs. After being drafted in the 11th round of the 2001 OHL Priority Selection by the Barrie Colts, Szczechura decided to pursue an NCAA scholarship and played three seasons with the Brantford Golden Eagles of the OHA Midwestern Ontario Jr.B. League. He accepted a scholarship to Western Michigan University in 2003.

Previously, Szczechura played for Western Michigan University (CCHA), the Iowa Stars (AHL) and the Norfolk Admirals (AHL). He signed with the Lightning as a free agent on April 24, 2008, and debuted against the Philadelphia Flyers on December 2, 2008. He scored his first NHL goal against Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins on December 8, 2008. Szczechura scored his second career goal and assisted on another Lightning goal on December 23, 2008 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and was named the first star of the game. He is currently signed with the Buffalo Sabres to play with their AHL affiliate, the Rochester Americans.