The Seattle Thunderbirds have signed goalie Thomas Milic to a Western Hockey League Standard Player Agreement.

Milic, from Coquitlam, British Columbia, was the T-Birds’ third-round pick, 51st overall, in the 2018 Bantam Draft on May 3.

“We think Thomas is a very technically sound goalie who projects very well into the future,” said general manager Bil La Forge. “Thomas is another strong prospect from our draft class and is a credit to the work and ability of our scouting staff.”

“I look forward to watching this draft class develop as T-Birds.”

Milic played in 22 games with the Burnaby Winter Club Bantam Prep team and had a 13-7 record with a 2.06 goals against average and a .925 save percentage last season.

“Having the opportunity to play in the top junior league in the world is exciting,” Milic said. “ I have heard and seen nothing but great things about the organization, and I am looking forward to being a T-Bird. It’s an honor to represent a great organization.”

Milic is the fifth member of the draft class to sign with the team. Conner Roulette, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, the team’s second-round selection, signed on June 5. Mekai Sanders, from Gig Harbor, the team’s ninth-round selection, signed on June 19. Kai Uchacz, from De Winton, Alberta, the team’s first-round selection, signed on Aug. 20. Lucas Ciona, from Edmonton, Alberta, the team’s first second-round selection, signed on Aug. 24.

By signing, Milic is guaranteed a WHL scholarship for every year he plays in the league. A player is able to attend any career enhancing institution of his choice, including universities, colleges, technical institutes or trade schools, which will help the player achieve his academic and career goals.

For each season played in the WHL, a player receives a one-year post-secondary scholarship, which includes: tuition, compulsory fees and required textbooks.

For more on the T-Birds, visit seattlethunderbirds.com.