Former NHL star Theo Fleury says in book he was sexually abused by junior hockey coach

Fleury says he was sexually abused by junior coach

EDMONTON, Alberta — Former NHL star Theo Fleury says he was sexually abused by a junior hockey coach.

Fleury’s account is detailed in an autobiography called “Playing With Fire.” The book is to be released next week. Excerpts appeared online.

The former Calgary Flames forward accuses Graham James of abuse. James was jailed in 1997 after admitting to sexually abusing two players on his junior hockey team — one being ex-NHL player Sheldon Kennedy. James could not immediately be reached for comment.

Fleury’s NHL career was derailed by drugs and alcohol. He tried to come back at age 41 with the Flames in training camp this fall but was cut.

On the Net:

Book excerpts: www.macleans.ca.