Tyson Gross is living the dream, and it’s all happening fast. Just last Thursday, the Calgary native inked his first pro deal with the Flames after a standout NCAA stint at St.
Cloud State. By Saturday, he was back home, and come Tuesday, he was skating with the Flames at their morning session.
“Staying with my parents is a nice change of pace,” Gross shared, smiling. “After the chaos of college living, it’s great to enjoy a cleaner space and some home-cooked meals.”
For Gross, signing with the Flames is more than just a career move; it’s a heartfelt homecoming. Growing up, he was a die-hard Flames fan, idolizing players like Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, and Jiri Hudler. Whether it was Gaudreau’s magic with Elias Lindholm and Matthew Tkachuk or any other iconic line, Gross was all in.
Now at 23, Gross finds himself on the ice with players he once cheered for, like Mikael Backlund. It’s a surreal experience for the young forward.
“Excitement is definitely the word,” Flames head coach Ryan Huska noted. “Playing for your hometown team is special.
It’s a great opportunity for him, and we’re excited to see how he progresses. We’ll ease him in and see where it goes.”
While morning skates don’t tell the whole story, Gross, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 194 lbs., looked right at home with the NHL crew. However, patience is key.
The Flames are committed to ensuring that every player earns their spot, especially with 15 games left in the season. Fans might be eager to see fresh faces, but the team is focused on development.
The Flames have a history of nurturing talent, as seen with college free agents like Sam Morton and Carter King, who didn’t jump straight into action. Yet, there’s a buzz about Gross potentially hitting the ice before the season wraps.
With 18 goals and 23 assists, he was a force in the NCHC, finishing fifth in points and earning the title of defensive player of the year. It’s no wonder several NHL teams had their eyes on him.
“I’ve had an outpouring of support,” Gross said. “Friends and family are thrilled, and I’m just grateful for this opportunity to be here and share it with them.”
For Gross, the excitement isn’t just about the games; it’s about being in the mix, practicing, and living the pro hockey life. “In college, the off-season felt endless,” he reflected. “Being here, staying active, and taking it one day at a time is what I’m really looking forward to.”