Jackals Re-Sign Defenseman Zach Tolkinen

ELMIRA, NY - The Elmira Jackals, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Buffalo Sabres and the AHL's Rochester Americans, announced today that the club has re-signed defenseman Zach Tolkinen for the 2015-16 season.

Tolkinen, 25, returns to Elmira for his second professional season following a successful rookie campaign in which he was the only member of the team to appear in all 72 regular season games. Tolkinen ranked second among the club's defensemen with five goals and finished third with 19 points. The Lino Lakes, Minn. native was also the only Jackals defenseman to record at least one power-play goal and one shorthanded goal.

"Zach had a very solid rookie season in the Jackals uniform," said Jackals head coach Jamie Russell. "He brings size, mobility, a terrific shot and a competitive edge every time on the ice. We are excited to help Zach continue his pro development and expect him to make big strides in his second pro season."

The 6-foot-3 190-pound defenseman spent the previous four seasons at Quinnipiac University and recorded 47 points (nine goals, 38 assists) as well as 151 penalty minutes in 135 NCAA games. 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.