Photo courtesy Tigers Hockey Twitter

By Teagan Rasche

‘Cowboy’ now a Monster: Cole Clayton signs one-year deal with Blue Jackets’ affiliate

Jun 17, 2021 | 2:01 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – A childhood dream has come true for former Medicine Hat Tiger Cole Clayton.

He’s signed his first one-year pro hockey contract with the Cleveland Monsters, the Columbus Blue Jackets’ AHL affiliate.

The Strathmore, Alta. product played four seasons with the Tigers, skating in 214 games.

“It’s been a dream of mine since I was a little kid and to be able to put my name on that dotted line and sign a contract is pretty special for me and my family,” Clayton said

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After a challenging year playing through a pandemic, Clayton says it taught him resilience and make him want this contract even more.

He joins former teammate Ryan Chyzowski as the second Tiger to sign a pro contract this week. Chyzowski signed a deal with the Toronto Marlies on Tuesday.

Clayton says it sets a good example for the next generation of players.

“I think it just shows you can be a three-, four- or five-year guy in the organization and you’ll get your chance eventually,” Clayton said. “You just have to wait your turn and they do a really good job developing guys here and Willie wants guys to sign pro contracts.”

Clayton will start summer training shortly here in Alberta. He plans to make the move to Cleveland at the beginning of August.