Thomas takes year off to 'reconnect with the three F's'

After days of speculation, Boston Bruins goalie Tim Thomas has formally announced plans to take next season off.

Thomas took to his official Facebook page on Sunday to explain his hiatus from hockey.

His statement reads in part:

"At the age of 38, I believe it is time to put my time and energies into those areas and relationships that I have neglected. That is why at this time I feel the most important thing I can do in my life is to reconnect with the three F's. Friends, Family, and Faith."

The move comes two days after Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli announced that the Bruins were operating under the assumption that Thomas would not be playing in the 2012-2013 season.

This would be the final year of Thomas's four-year contract with the Bruins. Thomas will still impact the Bruins cap number this season.

Thomas's full statement:

From the earliest age I can remember, I've wanted to be a hockey player. I've been blessed in my life to not only be able to live that dream, but to achieve more than I ever thought possible.

The singleminded focus that is necessary to ac...complish a dream of this magnitude entails (by necessity) sacrifice in other areas and relationships in life.

At the age of 38, I believe it is time to put my time and energies into those areas and relationships that I have neglected. That is why at this time I feel the most important thing I can do in my life is to reconnect with the three F's.

Friends, Family, and Faith.

This is what I plan on doing over the course of the next year.

On top of this, I will continue to train using the ARP/POV system www.ultrafitevosport.com and work with G-Form www.g-form.com in the development of protective equipment.

What does this portend for the future?

We'll see….God's will be done.

Cox Media Group