(Photo Courtesy Rockford IceHogs)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - The Springfield Thunderbirds announced today that they have signed forward Tomas Jurco to a one-year AHL contract.

A native of Kosice, Slovakia, the 26-year-old Jurco is a veteran of six professional seasons. Originally a second round selection of the Detroit Red Wings (35th overall) in 2011, Jurco has skated in 350 professional games.

In 149 AHL games with the Grand Rapids Griffins and Rockford IceHogs, Jurco has recorded 46 goals and 50 assists while posting a +24 rating. In 201 NHL games with the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, Jurco has tallied 22 goals and 28 assists for 50 points and a -11 rating.

Jurco has represented his native Slovakia on the international stage at the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games, as well as the 2015, 2016, and 2018 World Championships.

Following the New Year’s break, the T-Birds are back in action on Friday, Jan. 4 when they return to Hartford for a rematch with the Wolf Pack. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. from the XL Center. Springfield then comes home for Blast from the Past Night, presented by MassMutual, on Saturday, Jan. 5 at 7:05 p.m. against Providence. The T-Birds will wear vintage white Springfield Indians jerseys in that game, which will be auctioned live postgame.

Springfield Thunderbirds fans are encouraged to visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com to learn more about 2018-19 Thunderbirds Season Ticket Memberships. Packages include a wide range of benefits, including the lowest prices for the 2019 Lexus AHL All-Star Classic presented by MGM Springfield. For more information or to order now, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625) or visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com.