Vinny Prospal Calls It a Career

“I loved playing hockey, I loved scoring goals and I loved being a part of the NHL for so many years. That said, within minutes of me stepping on the ice for practice last week in Abbotsford, I knew that I wanted to focus on something that was more important than hockey, my family,” Prospal said in a statement released by the NHL Players Association.

“I love my wife and I love my children. Having spent much of the last 10 months with them waiting for a call to return to the ice, I know now that I would rather be with them at home helping and supporting my wife and being with my kids than playing the game I love so much. When I got on the ice with the Abbotsford Heat last Thursday, it was clear to me that I did not have the desire to play at the level I have come to expect of myself anymore. And to not be able to give everything needed would be to disrespect the game that has been so good to me. I am going to focus all my time and attention now on being a good father and a husband. Because, in the end, my family is and will always be my greatest accomplishment.”

Prospal played for seven teams during his 1,108 game NHL career, including the Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks, Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets, New York Rangers and the Ottawa Senators.

Prospal finishes his time in the NHL with 255 goals and 510 assists.