| 18 June 2010
A small smattering of media, former teammates form team's past, and current Sharks met inside the The Grill at the Tank today to wish Rob Blake farewell as he announced his retirement from the NHL. The entire affair was fairly short and sweet, with Blake seeming almost reluctant in his attendance.
(I doubt many people want to be at their own retirement parties, especially when they're televised and involve the press.)
The presser started with a nice introduction from Sharks radio announcer Dan Rusanowsky. Sharks Pres. Greg Jamison then spoke, and was about as succinct as I ever have heard him. Usually he rambles and makes some really awkwardly bad jokes, but today he stayed on the topic of Blake and didn't take too long. DW then made his comments. You could tell that he really does admire Blake and had wanted him here in San Jose badly for some time. He says it took 5 years to convince Blake to come here, and I can only guess at how many phone callas Blake got until he said yes. Doug Wilson is known for being relentless when going after players he feels would be a good fit in San Jose.
Blake kept his own words short. He very nearly lost it as he said he was announcing his retirement, but he collected himself and stayed fairly stoic through the rest of the press event. He seemed to genuinely enjoy his time here and was deeply disappointed that the Sharks didn't get to go all the way this year. They improved and the worked hard and did well, but it wasn't the ultimate goal. He said going forward he can see the Sharks building on this year and benefiting from it.
Joe Thornton, Patty Marleau, Nabby and Seto were all in attendance today. Todd McLellan called in with his remarks and Joe Sakic sent in a video to congratulate Blake and reassure him that retirement isn't a bad thing. Blake also said that he was looking forward to some family time, but that he was interested in staying in hockey and starting a new career with it. DW made it clear they'd find him a spot here if he wanted, and I'm sure LA's front office would enjoy having him back as well. When Blake wants a new job, I seriously doubt he'll have any problem finding one.
The event ended with some questions from the media, both in attendance and on a conference call. It was short and simple, and wrapped within half an hour. Blake will be giving an interview tonight on Chronicle Live as well.
Thanks for the two years, Blake and good luck in all your future endevors. We'll miss being able to call you "Capn Hook."
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