The Dallas Stars resigned center Mike Modano to a one-day contract Friday, allowing him to enter retirement as a Dallas Star.
Modano, 41, was first introduced by TV analyst Ralph Strangis, who was followed by a short film highlighting some of the All-Star center's finest moments on and off the ice.
Modano then signed his ceremonial one-day contract before giving an emotional, stirring speech where he thanked everyone for their support over his 22-year NHL career.
"I think it was unique getting a call from Joe [Nieuwendyk] asking if I wanted to make an announcement of this sort and making it official -- retiring as a Dallas Star," Modano said, immediately getting choked up. "I thought I'd get through the first sentence. It looks easy on paper. You wonder what this day would be like and it does feel pretty overwhelming."
Watch all three parts of Modano's retirement speech in the player above and in the two pieces below, left.
Modano is expected to file his retirement paperwork with the NHL. The amount listed on the contract will be $999,999 in honor of his No. 9 jersey.
“This is a special day for all of us,” said Nieuwendyk. “Mike Modano will always be the face of this franchise. He means so much to our organization and all of our fans. We wanted to give him the opportunity to retire as a Dallas Star. Mike has given his heart and soul to this game for over 30 years. On behalf of the entire organization and the National Hockey League, we would like to thank him for his dedication.”
Modano played for the Stars since before they were the Stars, moving with the team to Dallas from Minnesota in the early 90s.
He has long been the face of the franchise and is credited with helping the Stars establish a presence in a city dominated by football.
Last year, the Stars released the All-Star center and he signed a one-year deal with the Red Wings.
