Fleury Released by Calgary Flames

By EB
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Updated: September 25, 2009

Theoren Fleury has been released by the Calgary Flames.

The 41-year-old Fleury released this statement, “I am very thankful to Darryl and the Flames organization for following through on the commitment to provide me with this opportunity. I said in the beginning that no matter what the outcome, this would be a success story. I intend to take the next few days to review this experience and make decisions with my family regarding next steps in my life.”

Theo, who has not played since April 4, 2003 with the Chicago Blackhawks, attempted to make a comeback. Fleury battled alcoholism throughout his career, even being fined and eventually suspended indefinitely, has been sober for 4 years now.

NHL Commisioner Gary Bettman after seeing and reinstating Fleury, “I know Theo pretty well, we had spent some time together when things in his life were a little less settled. Seeing him last night, he looked terrific, he sounded terrific, he seems to be in a good place, he’s been sober for a number of years.

“We wish him well. I hope he can fulfil his dream and come back.”

That dream, unfortunately, has come to an end. The 5’6″ dynamic skater will come to yet another crossroad in his life.

As a fan, and as a person knowing the difficulties of substance abuse, I wish nothing but the best for Theo Fleury. To me, you did make the comeback, not an inch short of it, but a mile pass it.