Zach Taylor is headed to Rapid City, South Dakota after signing with the Calgary Flames' ECHL affiliate, Rapid City Rush, on Tuesday, March 19.  

"It means a lot to me to sign a pro contract," said Taylor. "You work hard, and it's your dream when you're going through the hockey ranks to play professionally." 

The Ontario University Athletics (OUA) West Defenceman of the Year finished with 23 points in the season to place him fifth among his position group. His seven goals tied him for fourth among all OUA defenceman. Taylor also earned an OUA West First Team All-Star selection this past season. 

"Brock has a great hockey program to develop as a player and person. You also get to go to school and get a good education," Taylor added. "I had some amazing teammates and coaches, and I'm thankful for my three years here." 

During his three seasons with Brock, Taylor notched 15 goals and 37 assists for 49 total points. He was part of two national championship appearances for the Badgers, with his first coming during the 2021-22 season and the most recent one being in March of 2024 when they competed at Toronto Metropolitan University in Toronto. 

"Zach contributed consistent offence from the back end and is a well-liked teammate," said head coach TJ Manastersky. "We will miss him and wish him great success." 

Taylor is the second Badger to sign a professional contract this past week as first-year goaltender Connor Ungar signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers on Monday, March 18. 

"It is great to see Zach add to the long line of former Badgers playing professionally," added Manastersky. 

In all, 54 Brock Badgers men's hockey players have signed pro contracts with 27 of them taking place in the past six years.  

Taylor has reported to Rapid City with their next game scheduled for Friday, March 22 at home against the Utah Grizzlies. 

You can keep up with Taylor and his new team at https://rapidcityrush.com.