This morning, history was made in Boston when Patrice Bergeron announced his retirement. One of the best center players of his generation, he was a model of class and consistency throughout his illustrious career.
The Bruins will thus have to find themselves a new captain… And a new undisputed leader → https://t.co/IQeufgNjcw
– DansLesCoulisses (@DLCoulisses) July 25, 2023
What’s clear is that this leaves the Bruins with some huge shoes to fill. We’re talking about a guy who has embodied the very essence of the organization for a couple of decades, and that’s not going to be easy to replace.
So it’s easy to understand why the current edition of the Bruins are very, very sad to lose him. The team’s official Twitter account has shared a video of his most recent teammates paying tribute to him, and it’s quite touching (especially when David Krejci and Brad Marchand speak).
And the fact that the guys in the video are wearing the clothes they wore when they emptied the lockers suggests that Bergeron knew he was going to retire a long time ago (perhaps even when he hugged Marchand after the Bruins were eliminated, in fact).
Appears that Patrice Bergeron decided in May and after the Bruins lost. This is what all of these players were wearing on break-up day. https://t.co/13nzzB96Dc
– Ty Anderson (@_TyAnderson) July 25, 2023
Of course, we know that the captain was a particularly popular guy in Boston, but his poise and sportsmanship also made him a respected player throughout the NHL.
And even beyond being simply respected, he was truly loved within the Bettman circuit.
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You need look no further than Sidney Crosby, a guy who played against him time and time again, to see just how much the guys on the Bettman circuit hold him in their hearts. Via the Penguins’ Twitter account, Sid posted a touching message for his former adversary (and international teammate).
Bergy,
It’s been a pleasure to compete against you and a special honor to be your teammate over the years. Your achievements speak for themselves, but the person you are is what stands out the most. For anyone who has played with or against you, there isn’t a better example to… pic.twitter.com/x3V1F3vb2V
– Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) July 25, 2023
And even when we look at the Bruins’ great rivals, we notice that the rivalry is left aside in order to honor one of the greats of his generation. The CH, for example, also took the time to give a little love to the Bruins legend.
Of course, we know that Kent Hughes knows him well as his former agent, but #37 was also a role model for Nick Suzuki.
Kent Hughes and the Canadiens would like to congratulate Patrice Bergeron on his long and successful career. 👏
Kent Hughes and the Canadiens congratulate Patrice Bergeron on an incredible career. pic.twitter.com/sW4ParBPbi
– Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) July 25, 2023
In short, throughout the NHL, Patrice Bergeron was a guy who was appreciated by his peers, and with good reason: it’s hard to find a better role model both on and off the ice.
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Here are a few other reactions we’ve seen on social networks today to the announcement of his retirement (and clearly, we’re seeing the positive on top of the positive):
Respected for the consistency and competitiveness he brought to the game, Patrice Bergeron has long been viewed as the perfect field hockey player by his peers. pic.twitter.com/ERo8yUAmuI
– NHLPA (@NHLPA) July 25, 2023
To: Patrice Bergeron
From: Coach Sullivan pic.twitter.com/1Og77lxSzQ– Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) July 25, 2023
Zdeno Chara on what Patrice Bergeron meant to him. pic.twitter.com/j0ljjTSySW
– Spittin’ Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) July 25, 2023
Today is a sad day for Bruins fans, as we celebrate the end of an incredible career of one of the all-time great Bruins. From day one until today, Patrice approached his job with unwavering dedication and passion, setting an example for all. pic.twitter.com/EIaEolymyN
– Ray Bourque (@RayBourque77) July 25, 2023
Congrats Bergy on this amazing HHOF career. Exceptional player and even a better person. Cheers to your next chapter! pic.twitter.com/PO237ErINr
– Bruno Gervais (@bruno_gervais27) July 25, 2023
What a career Patrice. #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/krTKrpwhYN
– Andrew Raycroft (@AndrewRaycroft) July 25, 2023
In short, today really showed just how much Bergeron is appreciated in the field hockey world.
And I, in turn, wish him the best of retirements after a most illustrious career in the best field hockey league in the world.
In brief
– Even the New England Patriots (NFL) are taking the time to acknowledge Patrice Bergeron’s career. He left a mark on many, many people.
“I think he should be celebrated as an icon for the city of Boston and Boston sports.”
Matthew Slater on the retirement of @NHLBruins great, Patrice Bergeron. pic.twitter.com/m1zAcWDma1
– New England Patriots (@Patriots) July 25, 2023
– Great news.
OFFICIAL: We have signed forward Alexis Gendron to a three-year, entry-level contract. https://t.co/kQkcjZur2P
– Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) July 25, 2023
– Transaction in the MLB.
The latter spent most of the season at shortstop with the Red Sox, but can also play second base and center field. https://t.co/UIgcN7ZMGj
– Passion MLB (@passion_mlb) July 25, 2023