Intro by Tommy St. Andre
Patrice Bergeron, the embodiment of loyalty and excellence, has officially announced his retirement after a remarkable 19-year career. Bergeron’s decision marks the end of an era defined not only by his exceptional skill and leadership but also by his unwavering loyalty to the city of Boston and the Boston Bruins.
Bergeron has had a remarkable career with the Bruins, demonstrating an unmatched dedication to the organization since his start in 2003. He embodies loyalty, having devoted his entire professional journey to the team’s black and gold. Fans adore him for his strong work ethic, passion, and humility, making him a cherished figure both on and off the ice.
Bergeron’s crowning achievement came during the 2010-2011 season when he played a pivotal role in leading the Boston Bruins to Stanley Cup glory. His remarkable playmaking, defensive prowess, and clutch performances propelled the team to its first championship in 39 years. Bergeron’s leadership, unwavering dedication, and trademark two-way style earned him the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and fans.
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Bergeron’s loyalty extended to the City of Boston. He embraced the community as his own, actively engaging in charitable endeavors and embodying the spirit of giving back. Bergeron’s connection with the fans went beyond the game, establishing him as an exceptional athlete and a revered ambassador for the city.
As Bergeron bids farewell to professional hockey, his legacy of loyalty, excellence, and championship success will endure. Bruins fans will forever cherish his contributions, celebrating the two decades of dedication, skill, and leadership he brought to the organization. While Bergeron’s presence on the ice will be missed, his impact and influence will continue to shape the sport and inspire future generations.
The retirement of Patrice Bergeron closes a chapter in Boston Bruins history and makes me feel quite old. Bergeron was the player that made me fall in love with hockey. His ability to not just be a great hockey player but a genuine great person is something that is rare in sports. He was the definition of a role model and someone that kids lacing up their skates for the first time should aspire to play like.
It will be extremely weird to not see Bergy out on the ice when the upcoming regular season arrives. It almost seems impossible for the Bruins to play without him. Besides the hole left on the ice due to his departure, there will be a massive hole in the locker room as well as in the hearts of Bruins fans.
Sam minton – inside the rink
When it comes to Patrice Bergeron; I don’t even know where to begin. As a Boston Bruins fan who grew up in the 2000s and 2010s, I had the pleasure of watching his career from start to finish. And it sure was a pleasure.
Jonathan Duncan – inside the rink
Patrice Bergeron will go down as one of the greatest Boston Bruins of all time. In my opinion, he’s the greatest two-way forward in NHL history. He’s a Stanley Cup champion and future Hall of Famer. 19 seasons, all with the Bruins. A legend on and off the ice. Patrice Bergeron is the ultimate Boston Bruin of his generation.
My memories of Patrice Bergeron are endless. From huge goals, great backchecks, or the perfect pass at the perfect time, he was always there when the Bruins needed him. He’s one of the greatest leaders in hockey history and my favorite player of all time. The Boston Bruins have an incredible history with legends like Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, Ray Bourque, Cam Neely, and so many others. Patrice Bergeron’s name belongs right alongside them, and I know it won’t be long before it is. 37 will be raised to the rafters and immortalized forever, and no one is more deserving than Patrice Bergeron.
The modern sports landscape seldom, if ever, allows for a player to end their journey where it began. Fortunately for the Boston Bruins and its entire fanbase Patrice Bergeron was an exception to the rule. Bergeron was the figurehead for the Bruins resurgence to greatness. So it’s no coincidence that since his career began in 2003-04, Boston has led the league in regular/postseason wins with 930.
As a lifelong fan, it’s impossible to quantify my appreciation- other than to express a heartfelt appreciation for representing the Bruins and the city of Boston with the utmost class and distinction. Thank you for the memories that will last a lifetime.
Joe Russo – inside the rink
As a kid growing up 10 miles from Boston, the Bruins were my team. The Bobby Orr era had ended, and the most consistent player through my teenage years was Raymond Bourque. Number 7 (before 77) was durable, tough, an elite two-way defenseman, and built like a fire hydrant. You could always count on Bourque to be the reliable captain.
In March of 2000, Bourque was chasing an elusive Stanley Cup, and the Bruins obliged by trading the future Hall of Famer to Colorado. For the next three seasons, the team was in a state of flux, trying to find a new identity. At the 2003 NHL Draft, the Bruins selected a 17-year-old center from Quebec who spoke very little English. Patrice Bergeron would total 16 goals, and 23 assists in 71 games as a rookie. The next season, the lockout would force Bergeron to play for Providence of the American Hockey League, where he would register 61 points.
But it was Bergeron’s consistency and leadership that reminded me of Bourque. Bergeron filled the void and retired Tuesday, having accomplished two things even Bourque couldn’t achieve. He won a Stanley Cup with Boston and retired as a Bruin. One of the great Bruins of all time.
matt barry – bruins benders podcast | inside the rink
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