Brock University men’s hockey player Sammy Banga has signed a professional contract in Germany with EC Harzer Falken.

The Windsor native and Sociology student said he received “a few offers over the past few months” that resulted in a lot of research on his part.

“I talked to many people in the hockey world and this deal made the most sense for me,” Banga said.

“My former teammate Matt Abercrombie plays in the same league and has been there the past four years. I talked to him and asked a bunch of questions. He had nothing but great things to say about the league and Germany.”

Banga said he’s heard through the grapevine the Germany experience is “amazing” and the fans are filled with passion.

“I am very excited for the hockey but more importantly the life experience of moving and living in a new country,” he said.

Banga, who netted the title of Brock Rookie of the Year during his first season, played with the Brock Badgers from 2013-17.

“We are very happy for Sammy that he will be able to continue his career into the professional ranks,” said Brock head coach Murray Nystrom upon learning the news. “He has developed tremendously during his time at Brock and we know he will be successful at the next level.”

In 101 career regular season games, Banga recorded 39 goals and 56 assists for 95 career points.

His best season came in senior year when he registered a career-high 30 points, adding 14 goals and 16 assists in 28 games.

“I had the best four years of my life at Brock,” Banga said. “They gave me a chance four years ago when nobody wanted to and I will always be grateful for that.

“I had the best experience on and off the ice and made many lifelong relationships in the process. It will be sad leaving but I am really excited to sign my first pro contract.”

From 2009-13, Banga played for three junior teams — the LaSalle Vipers of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League, and Markham Waxers and Trenton Golden Hawks of the Ontario Junior Hockey League — where he recorded 216 points in 194 career games.