Ferguson Accepts Full Responsibility For Team’s Failures
Posted January 22, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
John Ferguson addressed his firing Tuesday in much the same way that he handled his duties with the Toronto Maple Leafs during his stormy tenure at General Manager – with quiet reservation and dignity. He may not have made the moves that turned the struggling Buds into Stanley Cup contenders, but Ferguson always accepted responsibility and handled himself like a professional.
“It’s been my honour and a privilege to serve as general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey club,” he said at a press conference from the Air Canada Centre.
“I’m proud of my record here, I learned a great deal and I’m excited for my next challenge.”
“We all learn from experience and I’m better off for it and I believe this club is as well.”
“While not expected, I accept their right to make a change.”
Many believed Ferguson couldn’t operate as he pleased under the controlling powers of Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment, who own the team, but he denied that claim Tuesday.
“I have had all of the duties typically reserved to the G.M. Every one reports to superiors and boards, and (my job is no) different. Regarding this process I respected ownership’s right to make the change. Everyone organization has this right and it’s been exercised.”
While not going as far as to say he deserved his fate, Ferguson admitted the team didn’t live up to early expectations.
“We feel we have a better team than the record reflects, without a doubt,” he adds. “We sat down and felt we had a playoff club and I don’t feel any differently today. We feel we have a better club than our record reflects.”
“I am responsible and accountable. The leader has that responsibility and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
“I wish nothing but the best for the Toronto Maple Leafs.”
