Jack Jablonski is now a man of Steel.
The Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School junior was selected at the end of Tuesday night’s draft in the United States Hockey League (USHL) by the Chicago Steel. The USHL is the nation’s top league for amateur hockey players.
Jablonski has been paralyzed since Dec. 30, 2011, when he was hit from behind into the boards during a junior varsity game in St. Louis Park against Wayzata.
On Monday, Jablonski sent out a tweet that read:
Dear USHL teams, Just thought I'd let u know I am eligible for tomorrow's draft. Sincerely Jack Jablonski
— Jack Jablonski (@Jabs_13) May 7, 2013
And sure enough, the Minneapolis teenager’s tweet paid off in the draft’s 28th round.
With the final pick the Steel draft Jack Jablonski. Congrats @jabs_13 on becoming a member of the Steel!
— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) May 8, 2013
In response came this from Jablonski:
Best night ever. #steel
— Jack Jablonski (@Jabs_13) May 8, 2013
In a statement on its website, the Steel noted that Jablonski “has pushed through many trying times as he strives for success in his lengthy rehabilitation. Jack was the winner of the 2012 Courage in Sports Award and has been considered an inspiration for his work ethic and passion.”
Earlier in the draft, the Steel chose another Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knight, forward Chase Jungels.
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