Lightning rarely strikes twice in the same spot, but at the Esso Cup this year, it's certainly Stryking twice as Regina Rebels forward Stryker Zablocki is back for her second go around at the tournament, and is lighting up the competition.
They say lightning doesn't strike the same spot twice, but it certainly Strykes the same spot twice as the Regina Rebels' Stryker Zablocki is back at the Esso Cup lighting up the tournament.
Last year, Zablocki used the Esso Cup as a coming out party that helped propel her to a roster spot on Canada's U-18 national team. Zablocki dazzled last year showcasing her speed, hands, and release, but accumulated only four points in seven games for the bronze medal Rebels.
This year, through her first four games, Zablocki leads the tournament in scoring with six goals and eight points.
Her performance over the past year, earned Zablocki plenty of NCAA attention, with the speedster choosing Northeastern. This coming year, Zablocki, a 2007 born forward, will be the center piece for Canada's U-18 roster.
Her skating and ability to deceive in full flight have always been Zablocki's calling card, but this season, you can also see the added strength she possesses, particularly in terms of the pop on her release and power of her shot.
Playing for Regina, Zablocki totalled 40 goals and 65 points in only 27 games. At the IIHF U-18 World Championships Zablocki totalled nine points in six games for Canada.
Watch Zablocki's highlights from the opening four games of the 2024 Esso Cup in Vernon, British Columbia above.