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Career in jeopardy for Rockets sniper

When the Chilliwack Bruins face Kelowna tonight at Prospera Centre (7:30 p.m.), a familar face will be missing from the Rockets lineup.

Kyle St. Denis, long a thorn in Chilliwack’s side, finds himself in hockey limbo as he tries to come back from multiple concussions.

St. Denis, 20, along with his parents, recently met with two specialists, both of whom recommended he avoid body contact. The family then decided it was best for Kyle to take a break from hockey.

“It’s really hard,” said St. Denis. “I’ve been training all summer to come back with the intention of playing. This is one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make. But hearing the doctors say I can’t play made it an easier decision.”

St. Denis will remain on injured reserve until Christmas when, if he is feeling better, he will be re-evaluated. In the meantime the veteran forward will begin investigating educational opportunities and spending time at home in Trail.

Obviously I’m quite upset about it, but health comes first. I have to look after my health,” St. Denis added. “I’ve been feeling pretty good the last couple of weeks but it’s not where I want to be. I think it just takes time.”

St. Denis had 13 goals and 22 points in 26 games last year.