Rockford, IL. - The Rockford IceHogs and General Manager Mark Bernard announced Thursday that the team has signed defenseman Lachlan Getz to a one-year AHL contract.

Getz made his professional debut last season after signing an ATO with the Springfield Thunderbirds in the AHL. He played one game with the T-Birds on March 15.

“We are excited to add a player from Illinois who will contribute to our depth on the backend for our group", said Bernard. "Reliable defensemen are always so important as the season progresses and we're pleased to have another young player whose development will be closely watched over the course of the season."

A native of Northfield, IL, Getz completed a four-year NCAA career last spring where he skated for three different schools. The 24-year-old played his freshman year at Boston University, before transferring to Michigan Tech for his second collegiate campaign.

The right-shot defenseman manned the Holy Cross blue line for two years, tallying 13 assists in 70 games over his time with the Crusaders.

Before joining the college ranks, Getz played his junior hockey with Chilliwack in the BCHL. He also captained the Lawrenceville School his senior year at the high school prep level.