Former Colorado Avalanche forward Marek Svatos has passed away at the age of 34. The news came as a shock to the hockey world when it was first announced by the IIHF’s twitter account early Sunday morning.
We're sad to learn about passing of former Slovak national team, @Avalanche player Marek Svatos. More later on https://t.co/ldDBa42X8a pic.twitter.com/AR02xcYy0K
— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) November 6, 2016
Former Colorado Avalanche Winger Marek Svatos has Passed Away
Avalanche general manager and executive vice-president Joe Sakic said in a statement today that “The entire Avalanche organization is extremely saddened by the news. Marek was a tremendous person, a talented hockey player and a great teammate. Our thoughts, prayers and our deepest sympathy to his wife, children and his entire family”.
The 34-year-old from Kosice, Slovakia spent six NHL seasons with the Avalanche. His most productive campaign came in 2005-2006 when he put up 50 points in 61 games. That Avalanche team that would go on to lose the conference semi-finals to the Anaheim Ducks. Svatos was drafted by the Avalanche in the seventh round of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. He spent his first six NHL seasons with the team before spending time with both the Nashville Predators and the Ottawa Senators during the 2010-11 season.
Svatos represented Slovakia at the Under 18, World Junior, World Championship, and Olympic level. His junior career also included a Memorial Cup championship with the Kootenay Ice in 2002. Among frequent day-to-day injuries, major injuries such as concussions, a torn ACL, back injuries, a broken finger, and knee surgery held back a very promising career for the speedy winger.
Tributes
Multiple NHL players including former teammate Matt Duchene, have taken to twitter to express their sadness and support the Svatos family.
Thinking and praying for the Svatos family
— Matt Duchene (@Matt9Duchene) November 6, 2016
Ottawa Senators goaltender Craig Anderson, who’s wife Nicholle was recently diagnosed with cancer said that he was “very sad to hear about the passing of Marek Svatos. He was a great guy and tremendous player – he will be missed by many”.
Our thoughts and prayers go out out to the Svatos family during this difficult time. The cause of death is unknown at this time.
I'm absolutely devastated to learn of the passing of Marek Svatos our thoughts and prayers to his family. Rest in peace
— Darcy Tucker (@16DarcyTucker) November 6, 2016
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