After over 20 years in the National Hockey League, Mike Modano is hanging up his skates.
On his Facebook page Modano wrote, "After a long summer of thinking about my future, I've come to the decision that it's time to retire as a player from the NHL."
Mo, adored by the city of Dallas, was the face of the Stars franchise since the team moved to Texas from Minnesota in the early 90s. He is properly credited as being one of the main reasons for the success of the franchise both on the ice and with Dallas fans -- many of whom were brand new to hockey with the North Stars skated into town.
Modano was instrumental in winning the team's first Stanley Cup back in 1999 and the team's return appearance to the Finals in 2000. He holds the NHL records for the most goals (561) and most points (1,374) by a U.S. born player and is the all-time leader for the Stars in games played (1,459), goals (557), assists (802), points (1,359), GWG (92), PPG (156) and SHG (29).
He was inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 2008 and has appeared in 7 NHL All-Star games and the 2002 Winter Olympics.
After being released by the Stars last year, Modano, originally of Livonia, Mich., played his final year in the NHL for his hometown Detroit Red Wings.
The FB post goes on to say he will hold a press conference on Friday in Dallas and ends with the line, "What a great ride it's been."
Indeed it has Mike. Thanks for all the memories.
