Young ice hockey player Orca Wiesblatt passes away at age 25 following a road accident in Canada.
In a tragic turn of events, Orca Wiesblatt, a promising young hockey player and advocate for the deaf community, died in a car accident in British Columbia over the weekend. Wiesblatt, a 25-year-old Calgary native, was known for his energetic playstyle and his dedication to raising awareness for the deaf community, highlighting the importance of learning and using American Sign Language.
Wiesblatt began his hockey journey playing for the Calgary Hitmen before moving to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) with the Allen Americans last month, just before the start of the new season. His head coach and general manager, Steve Martinson, described him as a momentum-changing hitter with an infectious smile.
Orca Wiesblatt was one of five siblings and the son of two deaf parents. Despite the financial struggles his mother faced raising them alone, all four sons were able to continue to pursue hockey at an elite level. Wiesblatt's brother, Ozzy Wiesblatt, made his NHL debut for the Nashville Predators in January.
The details surrounding the accident that led to Orca Wiesblatt's death were not immediately known. O2K Sports Management, Wiesblatt's representation, confirmed his death and expressed their condolences to the Wiesblatt family during this difficult time. In a statement, they described Orca Wiesblatt as an incredible person both on and off the ice.
Last season, Wiesblatt played for the Athens Rock Lobsters of the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). Prior to that, he played in several minor and junior leagues, including the Western Hockey League (WHL) and the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL).
Orca Wiesblatt's team president, Scott Hull, described him as someone who helped set the tone for the franchise in its first season and a fan favourite. The Allen Americans and the hockey community at large mourn his loss and celebrate his life and contributions to the sport.
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