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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Reid Gow opts out of final season with Spokane Chiefs

Reid Gow won't be battling for the Spokane Chiefs next season. (Tyler Tjomsland)
The Spokane Chiefs have lost their captain and their top potential returning scorer. Defenseman Reid Gow has opted not to return to the Western Hockey League team for 2014-15, his overage season, saying he has lost his competitive nature. “I have spoken with Reid numerous times over the summer and he has informed me that he does not want to play in the WHL for his overage year,” Chiefs general manager Tim Speltz said. “Reid said he has lost his desire to compete and does not have the drive to play in this league. He has decided to stay home and be close to family and friends.” Gow ranked fifth in scoring among WHL defenseman last season with 56 assists and six goals for 62 points. The Chiefs’ 2013-14 captain was third on the team in scoring behind overage forwards Mitch Holmberg and Mike Aviani. Gow’s departure leaves Spokane with the maximum three overage players on its roster: Liam Stewart, Connor Chartier and Marcus Messier. The Chiefs ended last season with a potential six overage players returning, but the team traded Cole Wedman to Moose Jaw and Carter Proft signed a professional contract in Germany. “As an organization, we hope Reid reconsiders, but at this time, it is important for us to be prepared to move forward without him,” Speltz said. “He was a huge part of our team last year, but we understand the commitment and dedication it takes for a player to play at this level of competition. “Although I do not agree with Reid’s decision, our organization must accept and respect it. I will continue to have communication with him, but I am not confident any change in his decision is imminent.” In 229 career games with Spokane, Gow tallied 17 goals and 129 assists. He stands 39th in franchise history for games played. Gow’s departure leaves defenseman Jason Fram (57 points) and left wing Adam Helewka (50) as the Chiefs’ top returning scorers.