Bruins goalie Thomas skips White House reception due to differences with govt

Washington, Jan 24(ANI): Boston Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas skipped a White House reception with US President Barack Obama due to differences with the government.

Thomas, who had helped the Bruins win the Stanley Cup last season, conveyed displeasure with the government.

"I believe the Federal government has grown out of control, threatening the Rights, Liberties, and Property of the People. This is being done at the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial level. This is in direct opposition to the Constitution and the Founding Fathers vision for the Federal government," The New York Daily News quoted Thomas, as saying.

"Because I believe this, today I exercised my right as a Free Citizen, and did not visit the White House. This was not about politics or party, as in my opinion both parties are responsible for the situation we are in as a country. This was about a choice I had to make as an individual," he added.

Another match- winner and Bruins member Stephen Kampfer did attend the event.

"He chose not to come. I can require someone to attend a team event. If they don't, I can suspend him. I'm not suspending Tim. Whatever his position is, it isn't reflective of the Boston Bruins nor my own," Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli said.

Though it is rare for athletes to skip White House events but it is not entirely uncommon.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison had skipped his team's post-Super Bowl visit in 2006 during George Bush's tenure.(ANI)