Solar Bears head coach Drake Berehowsky issues statement

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears have announced that Head Coach Drake Berehowsky will return behind the bench for the Solar Bears tonight when Orlando hosts the Utah Grizzlies at the ARS.com Rink at Amway Center at 7 p.m. Berehowsky missed the previous five games for the Solar Bears after taking a temporary leave of absence after suffering a medical emergency on Feb. 21; during Berehowsky’s absence, Assistant Coach John Snowden guided the team to a 3-2-0-0 record.

Berehowsky has issued the following statement:

Today I will be making my return to the bench, but before I do I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support while I have been recovering from the medical emergency that sidelined me a couple of weeks ago.

It has been a humbling experience to know that so many people were praying for me, cheering me on and sending positive thoughts my way over the past few weeks. From the notes from fans on social media, at the rink and in the community, to the messages of support from those closest to me, the energy I have felt from these good wishes has been overwhelming. In these moments, you understand how awesome the hockey community is.

Though battles and competition are fierce on the ice, there is no better group of people to rally behind you in times of trouble off the ice. I want to express my gratitude to the first responders and doctors, nurses and staff at Florida Hospital. I know I was in good hands. These men and women are so dedicated and smart, and what they do every day has such an impact. The simple offer of thanks seems so small when I think of how big an impact they have on life.

I also want to thank the Solar Bears organization. Led by Joe and his wife Kate, they were a constant support to both myself and my wife Lori. They went over and above to make sure that I had everything I needed. Chris and Natalie, thank you for all of your help. And of course, it cannot be understated how much I appreciate that John stepped up and ran the team, allowing me the time I needed to rest.

And to all my players: thank you for being such great people. I could not ask for a better hockey family than the Solar Bears, to my family. All I can say is thank you and I love all of you!

On behalf of my entire family, thank you so much. I will never forget how wonderful everyone has been throughout my recovery.