MatthewFlames
Registered User
CALGARY (CP): The Calgary Flames are dissapointed to announce the retirement from professional hockey of defenceman Jon Girard. The defenceman was injured in a car crash this past off-season and upon the advice of his doctor's has decided to retire.
"We were hoping that Jonathan would be successful in his comeback attempt, but his doctors have advised him that he is not physically able to compete at the level of professional hockey," said Flames general manager Matthew Kershaw.
"The hard work and determination that he has shown over the past year gearing toward training camp this year was truly an inspiration to all of us associated with the team. He is a courageous young man and we are thankful that, although he is unable to resume his hockey career, he has recovered from his injuries.â€
Girard, 25, has not played in a regular season game for the past two seasons but had expected to compete for the sixth defenceman spot after the departure of the 2003/04's leading scorer Derek Morris.
"We were hoping that Jonathan would be successful in his comeback attempt, but his doctors have advised him that he is not physically able to compete at the level of professional hockey," said Flames general manager Matthew Kershaw.
"The hard work and determination that he has shown over the past year gearing toward training camp this year was truly an inspiration to all of us associated with the team. He is a courageous young man and we are thankful that, although he is unable to resume his hockey career, he has recovered from his injuries.â€
Girard, 25, has not played in a regular season game for the past two seasons but had expected to compete for the sixth defenceman spot after the departure of the 2003/04's leading scorer Derek Morris.
