VAASAN, Finland — Northern Michigan University's Sami Salminen signed with Vaasan Sport, the organization announced Tuesday.
"By signing a contract with Vaasan Sport, I've achieved my dream to play in the highest league in my home country," Salminen said. "I'm excited to begin my professional career this upcoming season."
Salminen played 95 games for the Wildcats, recording 30 points (9g-21a). He was a three-time WCHA Scholar-Athlete and Academic Team member.
Salminen posted a .588 career face-off percentage. He won a career-best 153 draws during his senior campaign.
A native of Helsinki, Salminen represented Finland in international competition at the U16, U17, U18 and U20 levels before his time at Northern Michigan. He also skated in the HIFK and Jokerit systems.
Vaasan Sport plays in the Liiga, the top professional ice hockey league in Finland. Salminen is the first Northern Michigan senior to sign with a European team this off-season.
