"It is clear that we need more supporters and better results if we are to take this organization to the next level," Bremner told a news conference.
"I'm not one to talk about myself much. But I know the people on our coaching staff are just as important as the top players in that room.
"If there are changes, this hockey club will be taking a step backwards."
Brian Sutter
Sutter, who succeeded Pierre Page as coach, didn't have a lot to work with this year. The Flames lost 479 man-games to injuries with 45 different players playing for Calgary in 1999-2000. Only Montreal's training room was more crowded this season.
"I fully understand and appreciate that injuries played a major part in our performance," Bremner said. "However, I also know that no one can guarantee me that we won't face the same problems next year.
"These decisions are never easy," he continued. "Al Coates has been a member of the Flames organization since 1980 and has served the Flames with class and distinction in many different capacities over two decades. Brian Sutter is one of the hardest-working and most honest individuals that I have ever had the privilege of knowing or working with."
Al Coates
Calgary lost defencemen Steve Smith, Tommy Albelin and Denis Gauthier and were without 20-goal man Cory Stillman for most of the season.
"I was proud of our hockey club," Sutter said prior to getting the axe. "We could have hung it up and quit a lot of times. But instead we stayed together.
"I can't explain to you the hurt that you have inside when you miss the playoffs. It's sickening."
Sutter was the 10th head coach in Flames franchise history and eighth in the 20 years the team has been in Calgary.
© The Canadian Press, 2000
