UAA hockey’s Mitchell signs with Washington Capitals

UAA forward Mason Mitchell announces that he signed with the NHL’s Washington Capitals, as an undrafted free agent.

“It was my decision to leave,” said Mitchell. “It’s a decision that will probably change my life for the better.”

The 22-year-old from Calgary, AB, finished his second season with UAA - playing in 25 games and registering 14 points.

In front of his locker, for one of the last times, Mitchell smiles, before heading to the Capitals AHL affiliate in Hershey, PA.

“It’ll hit me more on the way there," said Mitchell. “I’ll probably get some nerves, but for the most part I’m pretty excited.”

Helping along the way was Head Coach Matt Thomas, who spent 9 seasons coaching and managing, in the ECHL, before coming to Alaska.

“I begged him to stay,” said Thomas jokingly. “It’s really cool to see him [Mason Mitchell] do that.”

The bench boss also said he felt it’s a great reflection on the program.

“The one thing I think our program allows players to do is become a National Hockey League player,” said Thomas.

The Alaska-Anchorage website says Thomas has sent 10 of 14 seniors to professional hockey, including 5 with AHL game time.

Mitchell could hit the professional ice as soon as March 3, when the Hershey Bears face off against the Syracuse Crunch.