File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Kyrell Sopotyk

Blazers to honour Kyrell Sopotyk at Friday’s home game against Everett

Feb 14, 2022 | 2:32 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops Blazers have announced plans to honour former player Kyrell Sopotyk, who was left paralyzed by a snowboarding accident last winter.

Sopotyk, a native of Aberdeen, Saskatchewan, played 107 games for the Blazers between 2018 and 2020, collecting 45 points.

A snowboarding accident last January brought a swift and tragic end to his hockey career.

In a news release, the team says it will honour Sopotyk before its game this Friday (Feb. 18) at Sandman Centre against Everett. The 20-year-old will be at the game to take part in the ceremonial opening faceoff.

Additionally, the Blazers will wear specially-made practice jerseys during warmup before the game, signed by Sopotyk and bearing his #12. The jerseys will be auctioned off online between Feb. 14 and March 14, with proceeds going to a charity of Sopotyk’s choice.

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