NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Mike Dunham was the first goaltender selected for the U.S. Olympic team on Tuesday, less than 24 hours after he agreed on a three-year contract with the Nashville Predators.

“It’s been a whirlwind,” Dunham said. “I’m glad it’s over.”

Dunham had been scheduled for an arbitration hearing Tuesday morning, which the Predators avoided by signing him to a three-year, $8.6 million contract with an option for the fourth year at $3.6 million.

Dunham, 29, played three years for the University of Maine and helped lead the Black Bears to the NCAA National Championship in 1993.

As he walked off a plane from Toronto where his new deal was reached, he learned he had become the 15th player chosen for the team that will represent the United States in Salt Lake City next February. Dunham played for the United States in both the 1992 and 1994 Olympics.

“Obviously, I’m very excited. … It’s just an honor to be a part of that team. It’s going to be a lot of fun. Obviously with the forwards that we have, those who have been named, there’s going to be some expectations to do well, and I’m looking forward to being a part of that,” Dunham said.

Predators general manager David Poile said Dunham’s timing couldn’t be more perfect.

“He’s gone through the trials and tribulations of a young goalie trying to break into the NHL, playing in the minors, playing behind a great goalie. Now’s his time to lead us and his country. The goal for us is the playoffs and for his country it’s the gold medal,” Poile said.

The expansion Predators made Dunham their goalie before their first game, and he has responded by winning more games each season, going from 16 to a career-high 21 last season. He was second in the NHL with a .923 save percentage last season.

In 1994, Dunham was 0-1-2 with a 5.00 goals-against average when the United States finished eighth at Lillehammer. He was a member of the bronze medal-winning team at Albertville in 1992 and also has played for the United States in three World Championships.