BUFFALO, N.Y. – Western Michigan hockey senior forward Dawson DiPietro has signed a one-year with the National Hockey League's Buffalo Sabres on Thursday afternoon.
 
DiPietro wraps up his WMU career with 105 career games played, 34 goals and 54 assists for 88 points. The Medina, Ohio, native finished second on the team in scoring this season with 29 points on 12 goals and 17 assists, while leading the team in shots on goal with 103.
 
"Dawson was excellent at our development camp last summer, where he was able to showcase his speed and skill," Sabres general manager Jason Botterill said in a release sent out by Buffalo. "His high-energy, up-tempo style was an important asset for Western Michigan, and we're excited to add his skillset to our group." 
 
After playing just one game during his freshman season, DiPietro burst on to the college hockey scene as a sophomore. He led the team with a career-best 35 points on 13 goals and 22 assists in 36 games. He also led the Broncos in points in NCHC contests with 25. DiPietro battled through injuries during his sophomore season but still registered 23 points on nine goals and 14 assists.
 
"Securing a NHL contract is something all young players dream of, but few are able to achieve," said WMU head coach Andy Murray. "We are excited for Dawson. He has come a long way in the four years and we are looking forward to following his progress at the next level. As we tell all recruits, how does it sound to have a quality degree and a pro contract? Dawson will leave here with both."
 
DiPietro is the fourth Bronco to sign a pro contract during the off-season, joining Cam Lee (Pittsburgh Penguins), Hugh McGing (St. Louis Blues) and Austin Rueschhoff (New York Rangers).