Ryane Clowe steps down as coach of ECHL Growlers for medical reasons

Ryane-Clowe-speaks-with-reporters

Ryane Clowe got into coaching after his NHL career was cut short due to concussion-related issues. (Mel Evans/AP)

Retired NHL forward Ryane Clowe is stepping down as head coach of the Newfoundland Growlers, the ECHL affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs, for medical reasons.

Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas made the announcement Thursday afternoon.

The exact nature of what ails Clowe is unknown. Back in November, it was announced that Clowe was taking an indefinite leave of absence due to medical reasons.

Growlers assistant coach John Snowden assumed the head coaching role in Clowe’s absence and he will continue to operate as the team’s bench boss as the search for a new assistant begins.

“I’d like to thank the Toronto Maple Leafs for the opportunity to become the first head coach in Newfoundland Growlers history,” a statement from Clowe read. “As a St. John’s native, I was extremely honoured and proud to have held this position but my health is first priority for both my family and I.”

Clowe, 36, will remain with the Maple Leafs organization in an undetermined role.

The Growlers are 27-11-2 through 40 games, and currently hold the third-best record in the ECHL.

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