A lot of people are focusing on the lack of NHL players to make Team Canada for the Olympics, but there are still plenty of interesting storylines.
One of the most amazing ones to emerge so far is the story of Wojtek Wolski. Last year, you may remember Wolski suffered one of the most serious injuries we’ve seen in recent hockey history while playing in the KHL and just over a year later he’s representing his country on the biggest stage possible.
It’s an amazing story at the surface, but when you hear his side of the story, it really tugs at your heart strings.
“Exactly one year ago today I laid in a hospital bed after having surgery to fix a broken neck.
Today I am so proud and excited to have been named to Canada’s Olympic Hockey Team. I look at the picture of me in the hospital and can’t help but cry. Mostly tears of happiness, but I am filled with so many emotions about what I have overcome.
I could never have imagined that I would be so lucky one year later. I want to take this moment to thank everyone for all the amazing support along the way. Without my family and friends, I don’t think any of it would be possible. @jesselammers has been an absolute superstar through all of it. Thank you and I Love you.
When I say family and friends that most definitely includes @matt_nichol @mgivelos @mikeprebeg @sk8onhockey @marylalancette @dmartella12 @carnz74 @biosteelsports, Dr. Forman, Dr. Ford, Dr. Galea. This amazing group helped me literally get back on my feet and then back on the ice. Absolutely thrilled to be representing Canada and defending Gold in Pyeongchang.”
It doesn’t get much more special than that.
For every other sport in the Winter Olympics, it is a time to shine a light on stories that might not normally get national attention, often at the amateur level. The sport of hockey is returning to something similar and we’re sure we’ll continue to hear incredible stories from all of the athletes participating in these games.
