LILLIESTROM KARLSSON FORCED TO RETIRE AFTER INJURY
Guildford Flames head coach Paul Dixon says he’s devastated at the news that forward David Lillieström Karlsson has had to retire from the sport through injury.
The 24-year-old leaves the Surrey club with immediate effect after suffering a concussion last month and the circumstances of his departure has left everyone associated with the Flames stunned.
And Dixon says the news brings some perspective to the everyday life of ice hockey as he wished him well for the future.
“I think all around, there’s a sense of devastation for David,” he said. “We are all saddened by what he has lost in not being able to continue to play.
“Sometimes we get carried away with how important wins and losses are or how we compete on the ice, or this or that.
“But we actually work in life’s toy department, and something like this reminds us that there are many more important things than what we do every day.
“David is just 24 years old and it’s hard to even imagine the difficult times he will face while coming to grips with his news, and the change it will be for the life he has known.
“He was a great addition to the team and we’re so sorry to see him go under these circumstances.
“We wish David all the best as he continues his recovery and as he moves into the next phase of his life.”
Karlsson arrived from Swedish Division 1 Östersunds IK, where he arrived in the UK with experience in the SHL and Allsvenskan.
He made only seven appearances for the Flames, scoring four with two assists before the news of his retiral was announced.
And he thanked everyone at Guildford as he begins the next stage in his life.
“I want to thank everyone at the Flames organisation for making my stay in Guildford as amazing as it was,” he said.
“Everyone, from my amazing teammates, coaching staff to the fantastic fans has been a factor, and I truly loved my stay here.
“I will return to the Spectrum this season to support the team and I’m sure that they’ll be able to fight for the top spots in the end of the season and I’ll never forget my time at the Flames.”
PHOTO: John Uwins
