Kitchener Rangers' defenceman Ben Fanelli has taken another small step forward in his recovery.

After suffering a devastating injury thirteen months ago, Fanelli is now taking part in full-contract drills with his teammates.

The OHL team says the 17-year-old has not been cleared by Doctors to play in a regular-season game. There is no timetable for his return.

Fanelli suffered a fractured skull and orbital bone during a home game against Erie in October, 2009.