On Sunday February 21st, former Tauro Matt Olson was injured playing for the Chicago Cougars of the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL). According to multiple reports Matt was injured when he caught an edge chasing after a puck behind his own net. Matt sustained a severe spinal cord injury and has already undergone multiple procedures. The Minotauros ask that if you are able to help support Matt please do so through the Go Fund Me page set up by his family: https://www.gofundme.com/mattolson-3
Matt was a Tauro for a short time last season after joining the club as a 10th round draft pick. He came to training camp with the Tauros and stayed with the club through the NAHL Showcase. After the Showcase Matt was traded to the NA3HL Minnesota Flying Aces. From there he made it back the NAHL with the Minnesota Wilderness and the Corpus Christi Ice Rays last season before moving on to the USPHL Cougars.
The Chicago Cougars released the following statement through the USPHL website: http://www.usphl.com/news_article/show/615733?referrer_id
“Chicago, IL (February 24, 2016) – During a game with the Illiana Blackbirds on Sunday (February 21), Chicago Cougars Defenseman Matt Olson suffered a severe spinal cord injury.
From the Cougars:
During that game, Defenseman and co-Captain, Matt Olson went into the boards after chasing an opposing player down and catching an edge in the first period.
The result of the fall was a severe spinal injury. The last 48 hours have been difficult to say the least for Matt and his family. He has undergone a few surgeries and numerous tests at the hospital and currently doesn't have any movement or feeling below his chest including his arms.
You all have been very supportive this season and we thank you, please continue to support Matt and his family as they prepare for this life-long journey together.
At this time, the Olson family wishes to not have any visitors at the hospital and no deliveries as per hospital rules and code of conduct. To show your support we ask that you like, share, post, or even donate if you are able to Matt's GoFundMe page at: Click here to support Matt's Medical Fund by Sue Olson
The power of people is amazing and we need to galvanize what we have at this acute time for this family. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and respected the family's privacy and thanks for your support going forward.
Let's do the best we can for the family as Matt continuously gives it all for us!”