Retiring with the Captain?

Months ago when I was working hockey games still, I threatened to retire this year. Fed up with the politics of working in the entertainment business and burned out with the schedule, I was said I was gonna hang 'em up with at least Luc. I have made up my mind.

Today, Steve Yzerman announced his retirement. A couple days ago I predicted he to be back, because I expected an announcement before free agency trading began July 1. He told Kenny before that though, but waited until today for the fanfare. I'm sad on many levels but also relieved. I'm glad Stevie decided to retire on his own terms and in good health, before another injury risked his future and made him leave the game hurt. The future of the team is uncertain, now we can add Stevie to the list of those now gone. Truth is, our beloved Wings team of yesteryear is gone, the future is upon us, and just think of the history we all lived through with these guys. It's amazing and our stories of Yzerman will be envied by generations of hockey fans yet to come, the way we envy those who saw Howe, Lindsay, and Sawchuck.

Am I going to retire? Hell no! Seeing a number retirement ceremony is a once in a lifetime opportunity. If I can't be there for a Stanley Cup victory, I can see a number retired - and not just any number - number 19. It will live on for the ages.

Thanks for the memories Stevie.