very sad to see something like this happen end someones career.
Neck injury ends Colley's NHL career
February 25, 2006
NEW YORK (AP) - Islanders forward Kevin Colley will end his hockey career after breaking his neck in a headfirst crash into the boards last month.
Colley, who played only 16 games in his first NHL season, told teammates at practice Friday that his career was over. He broke the fifth cervical vertebrae, but suffered no paralysis, while attempting a check on Washington's Jamie Heward on Jan. 31.
After two surgeries, the 27-year-old Colley said he feels ``blessed that I am able to walk.''
Islanders general manager Mike Milbury praised Colley, who had no points and 52 penalty minutes this season.
``When you consider that Kevin gave everything he had every time he stepped on the ice, it's especially sad,'' Milbury said. ``The good news is that Kevin is going to lead a healthy and productive life.''
Colley played for several minor league teams, including Hartford and Bridgeport in the AHL, before signing with the Islanders in 2004.
February 25, 2006
NEW YORK (AP) - Islanders forward Kevin Colley will end his hockey career after breaking his neck in a headfirst crash into the boards last month.
Colley, who played only 16 games in his first NHL season, told teammates at practice Friday that his career was over. He broke the fifth cervical vertebrae, but suffered no paralysis, while attempting a check on Washington's Jamie Heward on Jan. 31.
After two surgeries, the 27-year-old Colley said he feels ``blessed that I am able to walk.''
Islanders general manager Mike Milbury praised Colley, who had no points and 52 penalty minutes this season.
``When you consider that Kevin gave everything he had every time he stepped on the ice, it's especially sad,'' Milbury said. ``The good news is that Kevin is going to lead a healthy and productive life.''
Colley played for several minor league teams, including Hartford and Bridgeport in the AHL, before signing with the Islanders in 2004.
