Wolski named to Canadian Olympic team 1 year after breaking neck

What a difference a year makes.

One year ago, Wojtek Wolski's hockey career looked to be in jeopardy after he broke his neck while crashing into the boards during a KHL game.

After a lengthy recovery, the former Colorado Avalanche forward returned with a bang this season, scoring nine goals and 33 points in 40 games with Magnitogorsk Metallurg and Kunlun Red Star.

On Thursday, he was named to Canada's Olympic roster a year removed from sitting in a hospital bed following neck surgery, he noted on Instagram.

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. @hockeycanada @teamcanada @olympics #olympics

A post shared by Wojtek Wolski (@wojtekwolski) on Jan 11, 2018 at 10:28am PST

This Canadian team may lack NHL skill, but it certainly doesn't lack heart.

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