Coventry Blaze Ice Hockey team have said that they Rawhave granted defenceman, Rory Rawlyk’s request to be released from his contract to take up a career opportunity outside of hockey in North America.
“We’ve never been a club to try to stand in the way of player who has this type of opportunity,” said Blaze Director of Hockey, James Pease. “Rory came to see us a couple of days ago and explained the opportunity he has and that he needs to consider his long term future.
“With the extensive injury list we've had, he wanted to wait until the majority of players were healthy again and now that most of the team are returning to the line up and given that we are carrying one too many imports, the time is probably right for him to make this move.
“We’d like to thank Rory for his contribution to the club and wish him well in his new venture.”
“I’d like to thank the club’s management for supporting me in this move,” said Rawlyk. “I won’t deny it’s been tough at times this season with all the injuries we have had, but I have enjoyed my time here and I'm sure that as the team gets players back to fitness, Blaze have a great chance of pushing for the play offs.
“It’s going to be tough for me not playing hockey – something that has been my whole life – but I have to give this opportunity a shot. It’s something that is gathering momentum and I can’t afford to miss the chance to get involved now. I might not get another chance like this and I have to look at my future and life after hockey. If it doesn't work out over the next few months, I would probably look to play again in the future, but for the time being I’ll be giving it all my focus.
“I’d like to thank the Blaze fans for their support and wish everyone the best for the remainder of the season.”
“The next three months is now all about the push to make the play offs,” concluded Pease. “Every game is going to be massive. Every point is going to be vital. Every shift will count. Everyone – players and fans – need to be up for the challenge. We have a group of guys who have terrific team spirit right now and they are committed to doing whatever it takes to make it. If everyone does their bit on and off the ice, it could be a very exciting next few months.”