Bulldogs goalie Stejskal battling cancer

WDIO-TV

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UMD Bulldog men’s hockey sophomore goaltender Zach Stejskal has revealed a battle with cancer.

Stejskal has not played since October. In an interview posted on the Bulldogs’ website Tuesday, Stejskal revealed that he was diagnosed with cancer last month.

"Back in October, after noticing something was not quite right I went to the doctor and I subsequently diagnosed with testicular cancer. Since then I have had surgery and am currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment. I am doing well and feeling pretty good. It has certainly been an unexpected and fairly scary experience, but, with a lot of support, I have taken the fight head on and am doing well. I want everyone to know that I DO PLAN TO PLAY hockey yet this season," he said.

Stejskal said he has received "a ton of support" from Dr. Suz Hoppe, who oversees Bulldog Hockey Sports Medicine, as well as teammates, coaches, the hockey team staff, his family, girlfriend, and a doctor at Essenta Health.

"It has been hard, but I have taken it one-step at a time, stayed positive and focused on getting healthy, taking care of my academics and staying in shape," Stejskal said.

Bulldogs goalie Stejskal battling cancer

He encouraged people to go to the doctor for regular screenings and not to ignore something that does not feel right. With Movember underway, Stejskal also encouraged donations to teammate Ben Patt’s fundraising effort.

The Bulldogs said those who want to support Stejskal can email champ@d.umn.edu, contact him on Twitter (@Zstejskal) or Instagram (@zach_stejskal), or mail to Zach Stejskal, Bulldog Athletics, 1216 Ordean Ct., 170 SpHc, Duluth, MN 55812.