Luke Opilka Retires from Pro Hockey at Age 21

At age 21, injury has forced Luke Opilka to retire from professional hockey.

Opilka has been battling hip dysplasia and has undergone two major hip surgeries, one on each hip. He is still recovering from his second surgery. He said he is walking well, but as to running and other disciplines, that's still to come.

Opilka, the son of Dr. John and Lisa Opilka, went to St. Anthony schools for several years before moving to St. Louis to pursue his hockey career while his dad maintained his medical practice in Altamont. Luke said he still considers Effingham his hometown and is back here regularly to see friends and his dad.

Opilka was a member of the St. Louis Blues organization. In his retirement statement, he shared, "I want to thank the St. Louis Blues, my hometown team, for drafting me and giving me an opportunity to pursue my dream."

Opilka was originally drafted by the Blues in the fifth round (#146 overall) of the 2015 NHL Draft.

Prior to being drafted, he spent two seasons with the US National Development Team in the United States Hockey League before joining the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League.

Opilka appeared in 75 games overall with the Rangers, posting a 40-24-6 record.

While playing for Kitchener, Opilka was diagnosed with hip dysplasia. 

Greg Sapp spoke with Luke Opilka by phone Tuesday morning about his decision...