Sacrifice, Humility, Dependability.
The makings of an Unsung Hero.
An award earned by Royals second year defenseman, Austin Zemlak.
“It was a big surprise and honour to get it. I’ve worked so hard this year, and my teammates supported me throughout the whole thing – I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Zemlak may not score many points yet, but he plays a crucial role in the team’s success.
Sacrificing for the team by blocking shots, taking hits to make a play, or fighting through bumps and bruises to help the team win.
Zemlak shows a lot of humility by not seeking attention or recognition for his contributions. Just content to consistently do his job well.
And according to the Royals, for his perseverance and dependability in all situations.
“It’s a pretty big, just getting any award – but especially that one, is a huge honour.”
After what he felt was a rocky start to the season, he put his head down and continued to build his game.
He really started to produce at the tail end of the year, and feels that’s an area of his game he’s really improved on in his draft campaign.
“I feel like my offensive game came on at the end of the season, I think I had 7 or 8 points in the last 15 games so that definitely started to click for me, which is huge because I was working on that all year.”
Around the rink Zemlak is known for having one of the hardest shots on the team, evident when breaking a puck in half during practice on a slap shot.
He’s also made a name for himself around the league for being a hard hitter. Opposition players know to keep their head on a swivel when he’s on the ice.
“It’s just be a thing I’ve had my whole life. Ever since hitting started I’ve always been a guy that didn’t shy away from it.”
While the Royals had known for a few weeks they would not be making the post season, it still hit pretty hard when time came to clean out their lockers.
“Pretty surreal morning.
“Definitely a tough day, leaving all the boys and saying goodbye…but this was an amazing group of guys, and I wouldn’t have wanted to play anywhere else in the league this year.”
According to the Royals first round prospect selection, there’s a lot of optimism for next season in the dressing room.
“It’ll be a really good year. Everyone will have more experience, a year older, and have that confidence in everyone.”
With a smile on his face and a trophy on the mantle piece, Zemlak is enthusiastic about what’s next.
“Definitely motivated to get going already.”
