Perhaps the best NHL hockey player ever from Newfoundland is Michael Ryder. Born and raised in Bonavista, Newfoundland, he honed his hockey skills in the county before playing in the National Hockey League (NHL). The Montreal Canadiens selected Raider in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft; And during his time with the Canadiens, he showcased his offensive talents and became a fan favorite.
Ryder later joined the Boston Bruins and was part of the Stanley Cup in 2011. During his career, Ryder represented Newfoundland hockey with pride and inspired local players to fulfill their hockey dreams.
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Zack O’Brien was one of those players from Newfoundland
Newfoundland has produced many good hockey players over the years. Zack O’Brien was one of those players. Born and raised in Saint John, Newfoundland, his journey from the local rinks to the professional leagues is a testament to his passion, skill, and determination.
In my post, I will discuss O’Brien’s career and share how he went from senior men’s hockey in his home county to the farms of the Maple Leafs Who is now on his way to play in Slovakia next season.
[BTW, just wanted to say thank you to the Newfoundland Growlers YouTube page for the photo used in the feature image of this post.]
O’Brien’s early success in the QMJHL
O’Brien, who turns 31 this week, has a long history playing hockey. His career gained momentum during his time in the Quebec Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). There he played with the Acadie-Bathurst Titan and later the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.
O’Brien’s last season (2012-2013) was great. He scored 129 points (with 50 goals and 79 assists) in just 68 games. His scoring prowess made him one of the best performers in the league and brought him to the attention of hockey scouts.
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O’Brien’s professional career
Although he had an impressive rookie career, O’Brien was never drafted in the NHL Entry Draft. However, that setback did not stop him from playing professional hockey. O’Brien embarked on an epic journey through several professional leagues, including the American Hockey League (AHL) and the ECHL.
O’Brien’s professional career has included time with bands such as the St. Louis Cardinals. John’s IceCaps, Manchester Monarchs, Norfolk Admirals, Colorado Eagles, and (of course) the Newfoundland Growlers. He continued to display his goalscoring ability and versatility as a striker and continually added to his team’s attack.
ECHL Championship and legacy with The Growlers
One of the highlights of O’Brien’s professional career came in 2019. That season, he led the Newfoundland Growlers, who Maple Leafs fans know as the organization’s top club ECHL team, to a Kelly Cup championship. O’Brien played great during the playoffs, scoring 16 goals and adding 13 assists (for 29 points). This earned him the June M. Kelly Award for Most Valuable Player.
He also played an important role in the Growlers’ successful inaugural season. In fact, his time with the team left a lasting impact on the franchise. This seems particularly satisfying given his almost famous status in Newfoundland as a local hockey player.
O’Brien leaves The Growlers holding several team records
During his four-year run with the Growlers, O’Brien became a franchise star. He currently holds several team records, including goals, assists, points, and games played. His offensive prowess and consistent production made him one of the ECHL’s most valuable players.
O’Brien’s leadership qualities and sportsmanship have also been recognized, winning the ECHL’s Sportsmanship Award several times. He is one of the good guys, which is why I chose to write this post about him.
O’Brien continues his hockey journey in Europe
Recently, O’Brien signed a contract with HC Slovan Bratislava of the Slovakian Extraliga. This will be his third European stint in his professional career. He previously played for two different teams in DEL2 (the second-tier ice hockey league in Germany).
O’Brien’s current opportunity will allow him to explore a new league and play on the international stage. While his departure from the Growlers leaves a void in the lineup, O’Brien’s impact and contributions will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.
In Slovakia, he will play in Bratislava, the country’s capital and largest city. It is famous for its culture and is much less expensive than living in North America. From what I can tell, the Canadian player playing in Slovakia is treated well and the team takes care of his lodging expenses. He will earn up to around $65,000 USD playing there.
bottom line
O’Brien’s Newfoundland hockey career with the Growlers is almost iconic. He is going to try another internationally. However, he will never forget his time in Newfoundland.
His contributions to the Growlers ECHL Tournament and comprehensive records with the team are a lasting legacy. O’Brien is a role model for aspiring young athletes in his home province.
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