Despite growing up less than a half hour drive from Minneapolis, none of the college teams in Minnesota were interested in Jarod Palmer four years ago.
But on Monday, it was announced that the former Miami forward was signed to a one-year contract by his hometown Minnesota Wild.
"It's incredible to actually sign an NHL contract and see my name, and see who I'm playing for," Palmer said. "I literally couldn't believe it."
Jarod Palmer (Cathy White/CNATI.com)
Palmer led the RedHawks in goals (18), points (45) and plus-minus (27) this season, and he finished 12th all-time among Miami scorers with 137 points. He also broke the school record for most career games played (169) as he never missed a game in a Miami uniform.
Palmer attended the Wild's prospect camp in 2009, and he said the process of becoming a member of the organization began then. He said he was impressed with facilities and the training available.
"I knew if I went there I would get a lot better at hockey," Palmer said. "That was a big part of me wanting to play for the Wild. I don't think I'm going to make it if I don't improve."
Palmer, who is from the Minneapolis suburb of Fridley, said he had offers from other teams - a couple of which offered him more money - making the decision extremely difficult.
The Wild will give Palmer a chance to make the team out of training camp this fall, he said, and if he does not secure a roster spot, he could be sent to Houston of the AHL to develop his skills.
Palmer's maternal grandparents live in Texas, and he said if he plays for the Aeros it could give him a chance to bond with them.
Another factor in Palmer's decision to choose Minnesota is the style of hockey to Wild have implemented. Previous Minnesota teams played a defensive system and lacked physicality.
But under general manager Chuck Fletcher and head coach Todd Richards, the Wild are more up-tempo and do not shy away from contact.
"I think it was a big factor in me going there," Palmer said. "It was frustrating for years to watch it. It's nice to know (the current regime) thinks there needs to be a difference in the style of play. I'm hoping they look to me to be a guy that brings in that new change of hockey."
The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reported that Palmer's contract is worth about $700,000. He receives a $90,000 signing bonus, and would make $67,500 if he played in Houston.
Palmer said a one-year deal for free agents in situations similar to his is common.
"It puts a little added pressure on me to prove I'm worth it," Palmer said.
As for now, Palmer has two weeks of classes remaining until graduating, including some difficult schoolwork before he completes his degree.
He said he still gets to skate at the Goggin Ice Center, and he is looking forward to playing some shinny hockey with his Miami teammates in the near future.
Palmer is unclear about his living arrangements once he graduates. He said he may rent a place near home in Minnesota until it's determined where he will play this fall.
Palmer said a couple of months ago that his ultimate dream was to play in one NHL game. Now the Wild have given him a chance, and he may be just months away from achieving it.
"It hasn't sunk in yet - it will probably sink in when the check comes in," Palmer said. "I've been kind of on cloud nine since."
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