Open Mic - Player retirements

I was asked to write this piece regarding player retirements and after 25 years in professional sports I have seen many players who have had to say goodbye. Some players you feel happy for, some you feel sad for, and some you don't even notice when they are gone.

Clearly, the Brett Favre situation is on the top of everyone's mind especially here in Wisconsin. Over the past few off-seasons he has vascillated whether to return or not eventually deciding to return, much to the joy of Packers fans.

This season was different. Coming off an appearance in the NFC championship, most people I think figured he'd come back since the Packers were so close to the Super Bowl. It was a bit shocking to everyone when he tearfully said goodbye. Or so we thought.

I think Brett is in the same place as many long-time prominent athletes who have competed at such a high level for such a long time that they don't know how to pull the trigger on retirement. They get cold feet and won't really feel comfortable with their decision until a year or two after they are gone.  Roger Clemens is someone that comes to mind as to wanting to retire unless the situation was as perfect as his was with Houston. He clearly had the ability to perform at an elite level and was able to get the right circumstances with the Astros to decide to pitch a half a year and make road trips only when he was scheduled to pitch.

I don't know that you can judge players staying around too long or leaving too early other than a guy like Barry Sanders whom, in my opinion, quit too early. You get other players like Chris Chelios in hockey or Jamie Moyer in baseball who have gone on to play well into their 40's. Have they stayed too long?

Players should play as long as they are able to produce. Veteran players produce in different ways. You can't always look at the numbers even though they do tell part of the story. I think that what happens in clubhouses and locker rooms as well as on benches and in bullpens can be just as important especially as team's finish championship runs.

To retire or not to retire is the most difficult decision for anyone in sports who only knows that as their job and career. Many make enough money to retire more than comfortably and then must adjust to life without their sports. Others retire after shorter careers and move onto their second careers. They become successful in their new lives.

All my best,

Jon Greenberg

President

Milwaukee Admirals Hockey Club