PITTSBURGH — Robert Morris men’s hockey player Alex Tonge will continue his hockey career after college as he has signed an amateur tryout contract with the Florida Everblades of the ECHL.

The Everblades are located in the Fort Myers suburb of Estero and are the affiliate of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes. This year, the Everblades are second in the ECHL with 96 points, have clinched a playoff position and won the South Division.

Tonge will be the 69th Colonial to attempt to play pro, as well as the ninth to play with the Everblades, joining Chris Kushneriuk (2011), Cody Crichton (2012), Adam Brace (2013), Jeff Jones (2015), Greg Gibson (2016), Chase Golightly (2016), David Friedmann (2016) and Evan Moore (2016). Alex is the first senior of the 2018-19 team to sign professionally.

On his chance to make a professional roster, Tonge said, “Thanks to everyone who helped me along the way. I’m excited for the opportunity.”

In four seasons as a member of the Colonials, Tonge ends his career as the fourth highest scorer in Robert Morris history. In 147 games, Tonge has scored 56 goals and 82 assists, good enough for 138 points. Tonge’s 56 goals are the fifth-most goals in program history, and his 82 assists are sixth most in program history.

This season, Tonge was named an alternate captain. He led the team this season with 19 goals, 20 assists and 39 points. In the playoffs, Tonge led the Colonials with six points broken up with two goals and four assists. Alex was also named to the All-AHA Second Team.