Hockey Day MN to Be Dedicated to Jablonski Family

Hockey Day Minnesota, the annual hockey showcase that features high school games held outdoors on Lake Minnetonka, will be dedicated to Jack Jablonski's family this year.

Jablonski, a sophomore hockey player, was paralyzed by a hit he took in a junior varsity game on Dec. 30.

This year's Hockey Day Minnesota is set for Jan. 21, and will feature three high school games out on Lake Minnetonka's Excelsior Bay. Later in the day, both the University of Minnesota men's hockey team and the Minnesota Wild will be playing at home.

The Wild, FOX Sports North and Wells Fargo will combine to host an all-day telethon beginning at 9 a.m., raising money for the Jack Jablonski Fund. In addition, there will be an online auction featuring Wild-related experiences, such as lunch with general manager Chuck Fletcher and head coach Mike Yeo, with proceeds going to the Jablonski family.

On Jan. 22, Jablonski will be honored again, as the Jack Jablonski Junior Bronze Pond Hockey Tournament is set to be held on Lake Minnetonka, coinciding with the Pond Hockey North American Championships. Attendance will be $10, with proceeds going to the Jack Jablonski Fund. There will also be a silent auction to raise funds.

“This event will be an opportunity for the public to come show support, raise awareness and make donations to the Jack Jablonski Fund,” said event organizer and Benilde-St. Margaret’s senior Mario Zattoni in a press release. “It is a time to promote a sense of community, but most importantly, to have some fun.”

All of the weekend events are part of Hockey Blast 2012.