Ryan Zapolski (born November 11, 1986) is an American ice hockey coach and former professional goaltender.
Early life Zapolski was born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania. He attended Cathedral Preparatory School in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Playing career Zapolski attended the Mercyhurst College from 2007 to 2011, where he played NCAA Division I college hockey for the Mercyhurst Lakers men's ice hockey team. His best college season was 2008–09, with a record of 18–5–3, a save percentage of .934, and a goals-against average of 2.22.Florida Everblades sign Mercyhurst College goalie Ryan Zapolski, will get Bobby Goepfert back temporarily – Blades' Blog
Zapolski began his professional career in the ECHL by joining the Florida Everblades, where he appeared in the net for one playoff game near the end of the 2010–11 season. The 2012–13 season was his breakout year, and he was recognized for his outstanding play with the South Carolina Stingrays by being named the ECHL's Rookie of the Year, Goaltender of the Year, and the league's Most Valuable Player.
In 2013, Zapolski opted to continue his career overseas, signing with Lukko of the Finnish Liiga. He spent three years with the club before signing a two-year deal with Helsinki-based Jokerit, a member of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in April 2016.
After three seasons in the KHL with Jokerit, Zapolski left as a free agent and continued his European career in Austria, agreeing to a one-year contract with the Vienna Capitals of the EBEL on July 9, 2019.
Awards and honors Award Year College All-Atlantic Hockey Second Team 2008–09 All-Atlantic Hockey Third Team 2009–10 All-Atlantic Hockey Second Team 2010–11 ECHL First All-Star Team 2012–13 Rookie of the Year 2012–13 Goaltender of the Year 2012–13 Most Valuable Player 2012–13 Redwood SoftwareMFT Rep of the Year2023
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