Mark Fitzpatrick facts for kids

Mark Fitzpatrick, born on November 13, 1968, is a Canadian former professional ice hockey goalie. He started playing hockey when he was ten years old. This was in Kitimat, British Columbia. Mark won the Memorial Cup twice with the Medicine Hat Tigers. He then played for several teams in the National Hockey League (NHL). These teams included the Los Angeles Kings and New York Islanders. He also played for the Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Chicago Blackhawks.

Mark Fitzpatrick's Early Career

Mark was picked by the Los Angeles Kings in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft. He was the 27th player chosen overall. He played for the Kings for one season. Then, in 1989, he was traded to the New York Islanders. He moved to the Islanders along with Wayne McBean. In return, the Kings received Kelly Hrudey.

Overcoming Illness

While playing for the Islanders, Mark faced a serious health challenge. He became very ill with a rare condition. This illness caused him to miss almost all of the 1990-91 season. However, Mark worked hard to recover. He returned to playing hockey in February 1992. His amazing effort to come back after his illness was recognized. He won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 1992. This award is given to a player who shows great sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.

Moving to New Teams

On June 20, 1993, the Islanders traded Mark to the Quebec Nordiques. This happened just before the NHL Expansion Draft. Four days later, the Florida Panthers picked him in the expansion draft.

Playing for the Florida Panthers

Mark played five seasons with the Florida Panthers. He was the backup goalie to John Vanbiesbrouck. On January 16, 1998, Mark was traded again. He went to the Tampa Bay Lightning with Jody Hull. In return, the Panthers received Dino Ciccarelli and Jeff Norton. Mark played 34 games for the Lightning. He won 7 of those games. The Lightning had a tough season that year.

Later Career and Retirement

Months later, Mark was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks. He played as a backup goalie to Jocelyn Thibault. For the 1999–2000 NHL season, he moved to the Carolina Hurricanes. However, he mostly played in the International Hockey League for the Cincinnati Cyclones. He only played three games for the Hurricanes. Mark played one more season in the IHL for the Detroit Vipers. He then retired from professional hockey in 2001.

Awards and Recognition

Mark Fitzpatrick received several awards during his hockey career.

• WHL East Second All-Star Team – 1986 & 1988