Former Dallas Stars head coach Jim Montgomery had yet to address his termination since being let go in early December.
Montgomery was terminated for what the Stars organization referred to as "unprofessional conduct," issuing this statement following the termination.
"The Dallas Stars expect all of our employees to act with integrity and exhibit professional behavior while working for and representing our organization. This decision was made due to unprofessional conduct inconsistent with the core values and beliefs of the Dallas Stars and the National Hockey League."
Montgomery broke the silence on Friday when he issued an official statement.
"Losing my job as head coach of the Dallas stars last month was a wake-up call. it was also the appropriate call. I let the team's front office, staff and players down. More importantly, I let my wife and family down. The team's decision to end my role forced me to look into the mirror and decide whether I wanted to continue living a damaged lifestyle or get help. I decided to get help. I turned to professionals in the field of alcohol abuse for their guidance and counseling. It has been an overwhelming and a very humbling experience knowing that I am not alone.
Today, with the unconditional support of my wife and family, and many close friends, I took another step forward by admitting myself into an inpatient residential program, where I intend to take the steps to be a better husband, father, friend, coach and mentor - one day at a time. It's a process I am committed to.
As I do this, I ask that my family's privacy be respected. Thanks, Monty."
Jim Montgomery has released a statement. These are his first public comments: pic.twitter.com/dVyGMohxnI— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 3, 2020
