3:23 PM Wed, Nov 30, 2005 | Permalink
Joe McDonald  Email
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Boston Bruins defenseman Jonathan Girard has decided to retire.
Girard, 25, attempted a comeback this season after being involved in a near-fatal car accident in July of 2003.
"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 Bruins GM Mike O'Connell. "The hard work and determination that he has shown over the past two seasons 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."
Girard was Boston's top pick (48th overall) in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft.
His agent, Bob Sauve, has known the lightning-like skater since Girard was 12.
"It's a sad day," said Sauve. "On the other hand, he will have success in life, too. But, it is mostly a sad day."
Sauve admitted that it was a very tough decision for Girard to make at first, but he has come to terms with his situation and accepts it.
"He had no choice," said Sauve. "It was a matter of his health."
His career NHL totals are 10 goals and 34 assists for 44 points with 46 penalty minutes in 150 career NHL games.
Once this chapter of his career is finalized, he will decide whether or not to pursue other ventures in the hockey world.
It's unfortunate this player with exceptional hockey skills had to call it quits at such a young age. He is lucky to be alive, never mind returning to the professional level as he did earlier this season. It was truely amazing.
Good luck, Johnny.
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