Sad news was announced by the Estevan Bruins on Thursday.

Forward Matthew Chekay was a dangerous skater against the opponents of the Black and Gold, but the number of hits made in return have taken their toll, and he has been forced to retire early from contact hockey due to numerous concussions.

Head Coach and General Manger Chris Lewgood expressed that it's a disappointing turn of events, however, it didn't come as a surprise.

"This is something Cheks and I and his family and some doctors worked on all summer, deciding if it was right for him to play this year. When he made the decision to give it a try, we knew that it was a matter of time, that if he did have another head injury it was going to be the end of his time with us."

"Kudos to Matt for giving it a try, and also recognizing the time to step away. Too many guys wait too long, and it negatively affects their quality of life going forward. With Matthew, this isn't a scenario in which he waited too long, he used the resources available to him, some very good healthcare. He listens to the professionals. He and his family worked very closely with Dylan (Lafranz, team trainer), Southeast health group, and some doctors out of Regina. We monitored his health very carefully over the last year and change, and ultimately it's the right decision and one that's going to make sense for him long term."

Lewgood added that it's a little late for Chekay to head off to school immediately, but he'll go home and prepare for the University of Regina.

"Matthew's going to study sciences and he's going to be into medicine. I'm not sure exactly what part, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's 'Doctor' Matthew Chekay someday."