Tigers captain Testwuide gets pro shot with Flyers

Former Colorado College captain Mike Testwuide confirmed Thursday afternoon that he signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia Flyers organization, capping a hectic week for one of the top college free agents available early.

The 6-foot-3, 220-pound wing was coming off a career year with 31 points (21 goals) that made him attractive to the Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals and New York Rangers organizations.

The Flyers first contacted his advisor, now agent, Dan Plante midway through the season.

“They showed interest and were pretty consistent,” Testwuide said. “I liked the organization and the style of play. I think I will fit in well.”

Tuesday was spent on the phone fielding calls from the four teams’ general managers, personnel directors and his agent.

Now, Testwuide, 23, said he feels relief knowing he has a team, and a deal that is pretty close to the maximum rookie under-25 two-day deal ($900,000 a year NHL, $65,000 AHL).

“It was a pretty good deal,” he said.  “I have a goal now and a team now. I can’t lay off the gas pedal because working hard is what’s got me to this point. I’m proud and excited.”

Testwuide will not report to the Flyers right away. Instead he will rest and allow his upper body injury to heal to get ready for training camp this summer and fall.

Also, Colorado Springs native Ben Holmstrom signed a contract, which starts this fall, with the Flyers. Terms were not disclosed. The 22-year-old forward, recorded 23 points (14 assists) and 69 penalty minutes in 39 games with UMass-Lowell.

He was recently named best defensive forward by Hockey East.