Goodbye Mr. Chelios

Goodbye Mr. Chelios. Fox Sports Detroit is reporting that Cheli is finally calling it quits at the ripe old age of 48. He has reportedly been offered a non-player role with the Detroit Red Wings, which has not yet been determined. As he exits the league, he takes with him 26 years of NHL veteran experience and three Stanley Cups between two teams. Chelios retires with the respect of fans and players alike, and will surely be an asset as he takes on his new role in the Motor City.

It has yet to be determined if Cheli will be wearing a suit in the front office, function as some sort of scout, or land a spot somewhere on the coaching staff. Personally, I think Chelios would make a great strength and conditioning coach. His off-season workouts in Venice Beach are legendary and are absolutely the reason he was able to remain relevant for over a quarter of a century in such a punishing league. Maybe if Cheli takes the reigns in the weight room, the Wings look a little fresher at the end of the Playoffs…that is, if they can first manage to get past the Western Conference powerhouse Nashville Predators.

Preds fans will surely miss the “Chelios is a sissy” chant that rumbles through the arena every time he steps on the ice. Let’s face it. He’ done his fair share of whining and complaining, and no one likes a grown man who cries like a baby. However, I think the taunting that Chelios received from the Nashville faithful was usually done in jest, and most Preds fans recognized that they were privileged to watch a future hall of famer skate on our home ice.

Chris Chelios, you are a big sissy, but a great hockey player that we will remember for a long time. Best wishes and good luck in phase two of your hockey career. In 100 years when people are talking hockey, there is no doubt in my mind that you will be remembered.

P.S. @Cheli – Now that you have a little more time on your hands, will you make a more serious attempt to make the Greek bobsledding crew? I’d love to see a ripped, 52 year old version of you sprinting out of the starting gates in the 2014 Sochi Winter Games. Plus, you would make your great grandkids so proud. Be well.

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