Patrice Bergeron, the captain of the Boston Bruins and one of the finest two-way forwards of all time, announced his retirement on Tuesday.
“It is with a full heart and a lot of gratitude that today I am announcing my retirement as a professional hockey player,” he stated in a first-person narrative on NHL.com.
“As difficult as it is to write, I do so knowing how blessed and lucky I am to have had the career that I have had, and to have the opportunity to leave the game I love on my terms.” I didn’t make this choice lightly. But after listening to my body and discussing with my family, I know in my heart that it’s time to retire from the game I love.”
Bergeron announces his retirement one day after his 38th birthday. He was on the verge of retiring a year ago, but returned on a one-year deal to assist the Bruins earn the greatest regular-season record in NHL history.
Bergeron has one Stanley Cup of his own, which he won in 2011. Boston was likewise defeated in the 2013 Final. He wore the spoked-B jumper for the whole of his 19-year career.
Bergeron was a three-time All-Star, but more significantly, he was one of the league’s top two-way centres, earning the Selke Trophy as the league’s best defensive forward a record six times. He won it the previous two seasons.
Despite his defensive abilities, he scored 427 goals and amassed over 1,000 points.
Bergeron thanked the fans, his teammates, and his family in his remarks. He came to the conclusion:
“Finally, I’d like to address the next generation of hockey players.” I had a dream when I was 12 years old, and through hard work and persistence, my dreams came true in ways I could never have imagined. Respect both the game and your teammates. Accept difficulties and just have fun. “The game will bring you so much happiness no matter where you go from there,” he remarked.
“I have no regrets as I walk away today.” I’m grateful that I got to live my dream, and I’m looking forward to what the future holds for my family and myself. I gave it my all, and I’m thrilled and honoured to have had the opportunity to represent this amazing city and Boston Bruins fans.”
More in Sports: https://buzzing.today/sports/
Photo Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/