A Retiring Story

As I write this, Henrik and Daniel Sedin are getting ready to play their last ever game as Vancouver Canucks against the Oilers in Edmonton.

A universe of nice things has been said this week about these two, in such adoring and eloquent fashion, by the likes of Iain MacIntyre, Brian Burke and others from around the league. For that reason, I hesitated in writing this post. But this blog is about gratitude, and I have so much gratitude and respect for these two NHL players who are part of this Vancouver community, that I've chosen to string together a few words, though words have been hard to come by these days.

From boys...
Pic cred: Jim Rogash/AP

Henrik and Daniel came to Vancouver in 1999. Their start in the NHL was not an easy road. They endured ridicule. They endured being underrated. But quietly, over time, they persevered. They worked hard. They earned everything that came to them. Slowly but surely, these two young NHL players from Sweden won over hearts and fans. They earned respect. They became two strong men who now retire as beloved, career-long Vancouver Canucks. "Good players, but even better people," is one phrase that has been commonly batted about this week by the media.

I moved to Vancouver not long after the Sedins had been drafted and totally fell in love with this place, much like they did. Truth be told, I wasn't that into hockey when I was younger. But then I moved here, started watching Canucks games and eventually, I became a fan. Watching the Sedinery develop over the years certainly played a big role in that. Being roughly the same age as Henrik and Daniel, I wonder if - like for me - Vancouver was a new start for them, a chance to grow and learn more about themselves at a time in life where one can be faced with uncertainty and doubt.

When equally beloved Canuck Trevor Linden announced his retirement in June 2008 and never stepped on the ice professionally again I'd said, "It’s sad, but not entirely unexpected. And unbelievable, the level of adoration a lofty city such as Vancouver can have for one man. Do I ever wish I'd had the opportunity to be at the last game of the season in April, to see that standing ovation and say goodbye. It's true, that this city will probably never see the likes of him again. To adopt the cliché, it is definitely the end of an era."

...to men.
Pic cred: @Canucks

Henrik and Daniel said thanks to the fans and, by announcing their retirement with three games in the season to go, they gave fans the opportunity to say thanks in return. Undoubtedly, the Sedins will be missed. Adoration levels for these men have been off the charts. Appreciation has been paid. Tears have been shed. Viking claps have been clapped. And in some ways, this still doesn't seem real. I know it is - they've said so themselves - but I suppose I'll only believe it when next season comes and they're not on the ice.

To the Sedins I say: thanks for being amazing role models, for showing up every day, bringing your all, working hard for everything and never giving up. I am so glad you stuck it out. I am so glad you stayed. I am privileged to have witnessed the evolution of your career, and to have experienced your time as Canucks. Thanks for being good humans. Thanks for making me a fan. While I, like so many others, am heartbroken that this is the end, there is no question that it is well earned.

Enjoy retirement, Hank and Danny. You deserve it.