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2014 Winter Olympics: David Poile won’t go to Sochi due to injuries

Unfortunate news comes today from the Tennessean’s Josh Cooper, in an article discussing David Poile’s return to Nashville from Minnesota, where he had been in the hospital after being stuck in the face by a puck last week:

USA Hockey announced on Monday that Poile would not travel to Sochi, Russia, for the Olympic tournament. The U.S. begins play on Thursday.

These Olympic games were to represent a highlight of Poile’s hockey career, as this was his first run as the general manager of Team USA’s mens hockey squad. Obviously his recovery is of paramount importance, but you can’t help but feel bad for him to miss this trip.

According to Helene Elliott, Ray Shero (Poile’s former protege here in Nashville) will take over as acting GM.

UPDATE: This afternoon, the team issued the following statement from David Poile:

“I first want to thank everyone who has reached out to me since suffering this injury. The outpouring of support and comfort has been overwhelming. My priority is to adhere to the advice and counsel of the medical team and, as a result, I will not be traveling to Sochi to be with Team USA during the Winter Olympics. Serving as GM of the U.S. Olympic Team has been the opportunity of a lifetime and I am forever grateful to USA Hockey.  However, it is not possible for me to travel at this time, but I will remain in contact with Ray Shero, Brian Burke, Jim Johansson and our coaching staff during the Games. Team USA is in great hands and I will be there in spirit.  I wish all the best for our players, coaches and entire group as they begin play in the 2014 Olympics and go for the gold.”