Jack Jablonski is now a man of Steel.

The Benilde-St. Margaret's High School junior was selected at the end of Tuesday night's draft in the United States Hockey League (USHL) by the Chicago Steel. The USHL is the nation's top junior league for amateur hockey players.

Jablonski has been paralyzed since Dec. 30, 2011, when he was hit from behind into the boards during a junior varsity game in St. Louis Park.

On Monday, Jablonski sent out this tweet: "Dear USHL teams, Just thought I'd let u know I am eligible for tomorrow's draft. Sincerely Jack Jablonski."

And the Minneapolis teenager's tweet paid off. "With the final pick the Steel draft Jack Jablonski. Congrats @Jabs_13 on becoming a member of the Steel!" the team tweeted.

In response came this from Jablonski: "Best night ever."

In a statement on its website, the Steel noted that Jablonski "has pushed through many trying times as he strives for success in his lengthy rehabilitation. Jack was the winner of the 2012 Courage in Sports Award and has been considered an inspiration for his work ethic and passion."

Paul Walsh