"It was a shock when Brendan informed us of his decision. We were completely caught off guard by it. After surviving his injury, he was an important part of our defense. The coaches, the team and I tried to get him to change his mind again. It will be difficult to replace him. We want to make it clear that Brendan's decision is not related to his summer injury. Of course, we wish him the best for the future," said Stephane Richer, sports director of Eisbaren Berlin.