from Josh Bailey at The Players' Tribune,
Over the past couple of months, there have been quite a few moments that have brought me to a pause. I think what has hit the hardest is realizing that this chapter has come to an end. All of the things that I love about putting on the Blue and Orange are now just a memory. Although it has made me emotional at times, I will always cherish those memories.
I want to thank not just this great fan base, but the people of Long Island as a whole.
This place is special. From the outside, I think a lot of people would agree. What’s not to love? But what really makes this place unique is the people. All of you. That’s why Long Island will always be home for me and my family.
From playing my first game in the Isles sweater at 19 to my last at 33, it has been quite a ride. Not always the smoothest of rides, but I wouldn’t change a thing. The tough times make you stronger and allow you to enjoy the good ones that much more, and we had plenty of good ones. I do recall some rather funny moments at the Coliseum. Some nights, if I was starting, the national anthem could be a vulnerable 90 seconds standing there at the blueline. (I heard it all — the encouragement and the “encouragement.”)
Josh is just a lovely guy. Met him a couple of times over the years. I remember (at a STH function) talking with Ted Nolan about him. They rushed him to the NHL at age 18....he could have used a year in the AHL...but he was a good NHL player. At a league minimum cap hit - could be a good player for someone as a PK and depth forward. Good luck to him and his family!
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