Walleye sign former BGSU forward Tyler Spezia

8/2/2018

Tyler Spezia of Bowling Green State University chases down the puck during a game vs. Miami. Spezia has signed a 2018-19 contract with the Toledo Walleye.

Blade/Kurt Steiss

Former Bowling Green State University forward Tyler Spezia will start his professional career with the Toledo Walleye.

Spezia, who played four seasons at BGSU, has agreed to terms with the Walleye for next season.

The Clinton Township, Mich., native appeared in 147 games at Bowling Green, posting 34 goals with 38 assists. He also had 103 penalty minutes.

During his four-year career, Spezia had a plus-minus rating of plus-34. Spezia served as an assistant captain as a senior last season and produced 10 goals and six assists.

WATCH: Tyler Spezia Signs with the Walleye

Walleye coach Dan Watson said Spezia brings an exciting set of skills to the team.

“The experience he gained playing for a terrific program and coach Chris Bergeron will help him make the transition from college to professional hockey,” Watson said.

Spezia was named the Western Collegiate Hockey Association player of the week when he tallied a hat trick plus an assist at Lake Superior State on Jan. 29.

The 25-year-old forward set a career high as a junior with 30 points with 53 penalty minutes and a plus-13. His 22 assists led the Falcons that season.

After a slow start to the summer signing period, the Walleye have announced a flurry of acquisitions during the last couple weeks. Those that have signed are forwards Shane Berschbach, A.J. Jenks, Charlie O'Connor, Ben Storm, Greg Wolfe, and Daniel Leavens, and defenseman Kevin Tansey.

Goaltender Pat Nagle, who spent all of last season in Toledo, signed with Grand Rapids of the American Hockey League and could see time once again this season with the Walleye.

Contact Mark Monroe at mmonroe@theblade.com, 419-724-6354, or on Twitter @MonroeBlade.