Erstwhile UAA winger Kevin Clark, who just wrapped his senior season with 23 goals in 36 games, says he has signed an amateur tryout agreement with Manitoba of the American Hockey League.

That means Clark is headed home to Winnipeg. He leaves Thursday morning. The Manitoba Moose are affiliated with NHL Vancouver.

Clark said he fielded several offers and his decision came between Manitoba and AHL Norfolk, an affiliate of NHL Tampa Bay. Manitoba won out for two reasons: It's home, and the organization is very solid -- the Moose made it to the AHL Calder Cup Finals last season. (Also, one of Manitoba's assistant coaches is former Alaska Aces bench boss Keith McCambridge).

"Why wouldn't I go play back home with a good organization?'' Clark said. "Obviously, Manitoba is one of the best franchises in the league, first-class people, and the building is new. They had 11,000 (fans) the other night.''

Clark is coming off a sensational senior season. He racked 23-14--37 totals in 36 games to lead the Seawolves in goals and points.

Clark became particularly hot in the second half of the season, when he carried UAA. That earned him attention from multiple pro clubs.

"A lot of teams really didn't know me because you're playing in Alaska and they only see you on the road, and you're playing for a second-division team (UAA finished tied for eighth in the 10-team WCHA),'' Clark said. "The second half really helped me, and got me to start in the AHL.''

Best of luck to Clark, who deserves this AHL shot.