Connor Ungar says the Brock Badgers and Brock University played a pivotal role in his journey to the National Hockey League (NHL).

The first-year Brock Social Sciences student from Calgary inked a two-year, entry-level contract with the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers on Monday, March 18.

Having backstopped the Badgers to a historic campaign this season, Ungar expressed deep appreciation for his coaches and teammates.

“My experience with Brock this season was an invaluable opportunity for personal and player development,” he says. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all my coaches for their unwavering guidance and my teammates for their constant support and encouragement.”

At just 22 years old, Ungar is the second Brock netminder to sign with an NHL franchise.

Brock first-year Social Sciences student Connor Ungar.

In 2020, former Badger Logan Thompson inked a deal with the Vegas Golden Knights. He has since been named an NHL All-Star and helped the team win its first Stanley Cup in 2023.

Ungar is also joining a franchise that is loaded with Brock grads. The Oilers Entertainment Group employs more than 25 Brock alumni in a variety of roles such as hockey operations, marketing and sales.

“We will miss Connor, but we’re excited for his opportunity in the NHL. His commitment to development and performance made him a leader on our team this season,” says Brock head coach TJ Manastersky. “Connor is a dedicated athlete and a great teammate.”

Ungar played five seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL) for the Brandon Wheat Kings, Red Deer Rebels and Moose Jaw Warriors before enrolling at Brock University, where he set program records.

As the Badgers’ starter, he led all Canadian university goalies with 20 wins while sporting a 2.15 goals against average and .932 save percentage in 26 games.

Ungar received numerous national and provincial accolades, including being named both U SPORTS and Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Rookie of the Year. He also received a U SPORTS All-Canadian nod and OUA West Goaltender of the Year award.

He will now report to the Oilers’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate in Bakersfield, Calif.

With heartfelt appreciation and excitement, Ungar says he’s embracing the next chapter in his career.

“It’s difficult to find the exact words to describe what this opportunity means to me,” he says. “I’m very grateful to have this next chance and beyond excited to see where it may lead.”