Max Gerlach Signs with Medicine Hat of WHL

Colorado Thunderbird 1998-born Max Gerlach has signed with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League. Gerlach had previously been committed to North Dakota, but signing in the WHL ends his NCAA eligibility.

Gerlach is originally from the metro Dallas-Fort Worth area though played the previous two seasons with the powerhouse Colorado Thunderbirds AAA program. Listed at 5'10" 160 lbs., Gerlach is a smaller forward that specializes in playing a high-speed offensive game.  He's perhaps most well-known, however, for his exploits as a 9-year-old when he made SportsCenter with this fancy shootout goal.

After committing to North Dakota this past February, Gerlach told the Grand Forks Herald:

"I love the tradition there and how pure it is. I love the fan base and how much they care about the team. I love how you have everything you need to become a next-level hockey player there. They have the tools, they have the coaching staff, they have the equipment. It’s about the effort you put in. It’s all in your hands. They give you everything you need."

That appeal wasn't strong enough to get Gerlach to keep his commitment, however. Gerlach likely would have played for the Fargo Force of the USHL next season, but will instead likely spend the entire season with the Tigers in Medicine Hat.