Vermont junior Stalberg leaves Catamounts for San Jose contract

Vermont junior forward Sebastian Stalberg has signed a two-year entry-level contract with the San Jose Sharks and will join the Sharks’ American Hockey League affiliate in Worcester, Mass., to begin his professional career.

“This was an extremely challenging decision for me and one that I depended on input from everyone who has supported me,” said Stalberg in a news release. “I just felt this opportunity was too good for me to turn down. It was a tough decision because we had a really rough year and I wanted to be a big part of the solution for next year. That being said, there’s no doubt in my mind that next year’s team will enjoy success.”

Stalberg, a Gothenburg, Sweden native, led the Catamounts in scoring for the second straight year this past season, posting 31 points on 12 goals and 19 assists.