Michael Kostka facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Michael Kostka
Kostka as a Ranger in October 2014.
Born	(1985-11-28) November 28, 1985 (age 39) Ajax, Ontario, Canada
Height	6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
Weight	210 lb (95 kg; 15 st 0 lb)
Position	Defence
Shot	Right
Played for	Toronto Maple Leafs Chicago Blackhawks Tampa Bay Lightning New York Rangers Ottawa Senators Skellefteå AIK
NHL Draft	Undrafted
Playing career	2008–2018

Michael Christopher Kostka (born November 28, 1985) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. He was a defenceman, which means he played a key role in protecting his team's goal. Michael played in the National Hockey League (NHL), which is the top ice hockey league in North America.

Michael Kostka's Hockey Journey

Michael Kostka loved playing hockey! He played for four years at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. After college, he signed his first professional contract with the Buffalo Sabres in 2008.

Starting in the AHL

Michael began his professional career in the American Hockey League (AHL). This league is often where players develop their skills before joining the NHL. He played for teams like the Rochester Americans and the Portland Pirates.

In 2011, Michael joined the Norfolk Admirals. This was a great year for him! His team won the Calder Cup, which is the championship trophy for the AHL.

Reaching the NHL

On July 1, 2012, Michael signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs. This was a big step, as he was now part of an NHL team! He made his NHL debut on January 19, 2013, against the Montreal Canadiens. In that game, he earned his first NHL point, which means he helped his team score a goal.

Michael then signed with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013. The Blackhawks had just won the Stanley Cup, the NHL's biggest prize. On October 19, 2013, Michael scored his first NHL goal while playing against his old team, the Maple Leafs.

Moving to Other Teams

After playing for the Blackhawks, Michael joined the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2014. He continued to play defence and help his team.

Later, he played for the New York Rangers and the Ottawa Senators. For most of his time with these teams, he played with their AHL affiliates, like the Hartford Wolf Pack and the Binghamton Senators.

In 2017, Michael decided to try playing hockey in another country. He signed a contract to play for Skellefteå AIK in Sweden's top league, the SHL. He finished his professional hockey career there in 2018.

Awards and Honors

Michael Kostka earned some special awards during his hockey career.

Images for kids

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  Kostka in 2014 with the Lightning.