Corpus Christi Caller Times Caller.com - Chris Robertson's explanation

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Tuesday, December 14, 1999

Chris Robertson's explanation

(IceRays' forward Chris Robertson unexpectedly quit the team Saturday after recovering from a knee injury for the past eight weeks.
   Robertson has declined interviews but issued the following press release Monday.)

   First and foremost, I would like to thank coach (Taylor) Hall for giving me the opportunity to come to Corpus Christi and play in front of the fans that were voted best in the WPHL. Their enthusiasm was an integral part of allowing me to be named WPHL Most Valuable Player last season.
   I respect coach Hall's new position this season as an owner, however I do not think he fully understands how this has changed his relationship with the players. This season Taylor re-appointed me as the team's player representative. Although it was never my intention to be or act as coach, I felt I had an obligation as the team's player representative to stand up for the players on certain issues that were being dictated by owner/general manager (Bill) Davidson. Owner Hall must understand the players need an outlet to question and request things of ownership. That responsibility, with coach Hall being an owner, falls entirely on the shoulders of the player representative.
   As the IceRays player representative, my concern is the needs and rights of the players, and this was not respected by management. I had come to find out they tried to trade me to minimize the voice of the players.
   My decision is not about contract or playing ability. Rather, it's about pride and the belief of standing up for the rights of the players.
   Let me end by again thanking everyone for their support and friendship during the difficult weeks.

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