COVENTRY BLAZE have announced that popular American forward Drew Fisher will not be returning to the Skydome for the 2016/17 season.
The 29-year-old has announced his retirement from the sport with immediate effect after being offered an opportunity too good to turn down outside of hockey.
Fisher played just one season with the Blaze where he made a big impression – not least for his various highlight reel goals scored in various penalty shootouts throughout the season.
His unstoppable switch on Belfast Giants goaltender Stephen Murphy was granted the honour of ‘Champagne Moment’ last season.
Fisher hangs up his skates on the back of 14 goals and 27 assists in 60 games for the Blaze.
Fisher said: “I will truly miss this game but more than that I will miss the people surrounding it.
“I have had the opportunity to touch so many lives and I will miss the people who touched mine.
“My family’s time in Coventry was hands down the most fun we’ve ever had around this beautiful game.
“Our family would like the thank the Coventry Blaze staff and organisation along with fans and teammates for bringing us in as part of their family.
“We will truly miss everything about it.”
Blaze head coach Danny Stewart said: “It’s unfortunate for the club that Drew has decided to take a job outside of hockey.
“He was the type of player we are trying to mould our organisation around and build on.
“However it’s a decision we completely understand and we wish Drew all the best in the next part of his life.
“At the moment we are speaking to numerous players, including Chris Bruton and we are hoping to make decisions soon that will see us hopefully come to agreements on several players in the next few weeks.”
