Coventry Blaze forward Drew Fisher will no longer be returning to the club for the 2016/17 Elite League season.

The 29-year-old has retired from the sport after being offered an opportunity “too good to turn down” outside of hockey.

Fisher scored 15 goals with 28 assists in 64 games for Blaze.

“With a heavy heart I made the toughest decision of my life,” said Fisher.

“I will truly miss this game but more than that I will miss the people surrounding it. I have had the opportunity to touch so many lives and I will miss the people who touched mine.

“My family’s time in Coventry was hands down the most fun we’ve ever had around this beautiful game.

“Our family would like the thank the Coventry Blaze staff and organisation along with fans and teammates for bringing us in as part of their family. We will truly miss everything about it.”

Blaze Head Coach Danny Stewart added: “It’s unfortunate for the club that Drew has decided to take a job outside of hockey. He was the type of player we are trying to mould our organisation around and build on.

“In saying that, it is without a doubt, a decision we completely understand and we wish Drew all the best in the next part of his life.

“At the end of the day a career, and the long term security for his family I would imagine take priority over hockey and that’s part of the business we are in.

“With this news we now need to determine how we need to fill the void of his departure. He was a quality player and person and that is exactly what we will be looking for.

“At the moment we are speaking to numerous players, including Chris Bruton and also agents and we are hoping to make decisions soon that will see us hopefully come to agreements on several players in the next few weeks.”

(Image permission: Scott Wiggins)