Theoren Fleury retires as Calgary Flame

CALGARY – Theoren Fleury has decided to retire as a Calgary Flame.

The 41-year-old announced this morning at a news conference at the Pengrowth Saddledome that his comeback bid is over.

"These last few days have been difficult. How could I possibly top what I’ve accomplished here in the last two weeks?" said Fleury, who sat with his wife Jennifer as he read from a prepared statement.

"Today after much debate with my family and friends, I am officially retiring from hockey."

Fleury spent the weekend mulling his options after the Flames terminated his tryout agreement on Friday.

"As I left the Saddledome on Friday, I knew this part of my life had finally come to an end," he said. "I did everything in my power."

When Fleury decided to attempt a comeback, he was still suspended by the league for violation of the substance abuse program. On Sept. 10, he received a pardon from commissioner Gary Bettman.

In four pre-season games with the Flames, Fleury had four points. He also scored the shootout winner at home against the New York Islanders.

"To my fans, what can I say? Thanks so much for all your support, especially in the last two weeks," Fleury added. "Please don’t be angry . . . I get to retire as a Calgary Flame.

"For the last two weeks, I pulled on your heart strings. I made those of you who were doubters in the beginning, believers."