Being able to play the game of hockey (or any sport, really) is a privilege, but when a player's passion leads to them being drafted and allowing them the opportunity to make a career out of a sport, it's extra special. With that said, as quickly as it comes, it can all be taken away in a cruel twist of fate. That's exactly what happened to former 4th round pick, Ian Scott, who the Leafs drafted with the 110th pick in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft.
Scott, 23, played most of his hockey with the WHL's Prince Albert Raiders, culminating in an otherworldly 2018-19 season that saw the Calgary native post a stellar 1.83 GAA and .932 save percentage over 49 games to go along with a sparkling 38-8-2 record.
Unfortunately for Scott, a series of unfortunate and significant injuries derailed his professional career before it really got started. After his massive final WHL season, Scott made it into just 6 ECHL games and 1 AHL game and announced on Thursday that his career is coming to an unfortunate and abrupt end.
No athlete wants to make this kind of post but have decided to step away from playing hockey.
Over the past few years i've been battling injuries and working hard to get back to full playable health but unfortunately have decided to take a step back & start a new life chapter.
would like to thank @paraidershockey & the city of Prince Albert for all the love and support during my time there. It truly was the best place to play Junior Hockey.
The @mapleleafs & @torontomarlies for drafting me & and all the opportunities to chase my dream of playing pro.
Would also like to thank al the teammates, coaches, trainers, my billets in PA & all the lifelong friends made along the way. Lastly my family, for believing in me, standing by my side through all the ups & downs and being the best support system.
I'm excited to see what the future holds!
-Ian Scott on hanging up his pads and entering the next chapter of his life
While Scott's retirement announcement seems like he remains full of hope, he must be absolutely gutted. For someone who has worked his entire life to get to a point where he had made the pro ranks, the loss he must feel right now is tremendous. Having said that, I'm sure that his optimism is genuine.
Our hearts go out to Scott during this difficult time, but we also want to wish him the best of luck with whatever comes next for him. Once considered the future in goal for the Leafs (following his monstrous 2018-19 WHL season), the future is now whatever you want it to be, Ian. Go get it, kid.
