“Rasmus had an outstanding senior season for Merrimack,” said Francis. “He’s a big presence in the net and we look forward to following his development next season.”

Tirronen, 24, went 12-14-3 with a 2.40 goals-against average and .929 save percentage during his senior season for Merrimack College in 2014-15. The Espoo, Finland, native was named to the Hockey East All-Star Honorable Mention squad as well as the All-HEBWA (Hockey East Broadcasters and Writers Association) Second Team. Tirronen was also named Hockey East’s Goaltender of the Month in October, and earned Defensive Player of the Week honors three times. He matched a school record with 63 saves in a 2-1 overtime victory at Northeastern on March 7, helping the Warriors sweep their Hockey East playoff series against the Huskies. Merrimack was eliminated by No. 3 Boston University last weekend, despite Tirronen making 90 saves in the two games of the series.

Tirronen (6’3”, 200 lbs.) went 22-34-8 with a 2.45 goals-against average and .918 save percentage in 68 career collegiate games for Merrimack. Prior to beginning his college career, he went 24-9-0 with a 2.41 goals-against average and .908 save percentage during one season with Topeka of the North American Hockey League (NAHL).