Jackals Agree to Terms with Defenseman Zach Tolkinen

ELMIRA, N.Y. - The Elmira Jackals, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Buffalo Sabres and AHL's Rochester Americans, announced today that rookie defenseman Zach Tolkinen has signed a Standard Player Contract for the 2014-2015 season.

Tolkinen, 24, enters his first professional season with the Elmira Jackals. The 6-foot-3 190-pound defenseman set a career high with 22 points last season at Quinnipiac University. The Lino Lakes, MN native led all Bobcats' blueliners in scoring as a senior. Tolkinen recorded 47 points (nine goals, 38 assists) and 151 penalty minutes in 135 NCAA games. Following his senior campaign, Tolkinen signed an amateur tryout agreement with the Abbotsford Heat.

"Zach is a strong defenseman with an active stick and a long reach," said Jackals head coach Jamie Russell. "He is very reliable in the defensive zone and can contribute offensively as well. Zach can be counted on to make the first outlet pass and start the rush."

Prior to attending Quinnipiac, Tolkinen played for the Owatonna Express and the Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League. He notched 42 points (12 goals, 30 assists) and 171 penalty minutes in 93 NAHL games.

Mark your calendars! The Jackals open their home schedule for their eighth season of ECHL hockey on Friday, October 17 against the Kalamazoo Wings at 7:05 p.m. Don't miss a minute of the action with Jackals season tickets! Call 607-734-7825 or visit jackalshockey.com to order your season tickets today. Can't make it to every game? No problem! The Jackals are offering 10 and 20-game select and flex ticket plans! Get 'em while they're hot!