Tampa Bay Lightning Captain Tim Taylor, a 13-year veteran, has been getting praise across the NHL for his attempt at returning to the ice following hip resurfacing surgery on September 6th, 2007. He is trying to become the first player in a contact sport to play following this major procedure. Taylor has been progressing better than anticipated. Following the surgery, Taylor was barely able to walk and found it difficult and painful just getting out of bed or going to thbe bathroom and now, only five months after the surgery, he took the ice and skated at St. Pete Times Forum on February 12th. With the Lightning 11 points behind Buffalo for the 8th and final playoff spot and only 20 games remaining, Taylor is pushing himself to return to action before the season ends and has been working readily with Lightning strength coach Eric Lawson.
By Stephen Harris / Bruins Notebook Sunday, February 24, 2008
http://www.bostonherald.com/
Taylor battling back
Former Bruins center Tim Taylor, one of hockey’s truly classy guys, is attempting to make an amazing comeback.
Last summer he had hip resurfacing surgery. At 39, he knows this will be his final season, yet he has been working hard to see if it’s possible to return for a even a few NHL games with his rebuilt hip. He has been skating for two weeks and hopes to be cleared for full practice a week into March.
“And then when the time comes, we have to sit down and make a decision on the risk/reward in coming back to try and play a few games,” Taylor said. “No one’s ever done it with hockey at this level. I just want to give myself the best opportunity. . . . This is the best I’ve felt in 7-8 years.”
No comments:
Post a Comment