This morning at 10:00, Lightning owner Jeff Vinik will host a press conference to announce something the Lightning have never done. They are going to retire a number…number 26…the number that Martin St. Louis wore for 13 years for the Bolts.
- Ceremony scheduled for Friday, January 13 at Amalie Arena when the Lightning host John Tortorella and the Columbus Blue Jackets at AMALIE Arena.
“Everyone in the organization is excited to celebrate and thank Marty for his immense long-term contributions to the Lightning’s past successes and the Tampa Bay community,” said Owner Jeff Vinik upon making the announcement. “As Marty enters his second year in retirement from the game, we believe this season is the time to hang his number from the rafters at AMALIE Arena.”
“Marty had a terrific career in Tampa Bay, making six All-Star appearances while setting numerous team records, all highlighted of course by the Stanley Cup win in 2004. We look forward to a wonderful retirement ceremony, recognizing him for all that he accomplished as a member of the Lightning.”
“To have my number retired by the Lightning is a tremendous honor and I’d like to thank Jeff Vinik and everyone in the organization for recognizing me this way,” said St. Louis. “I have many great memories in Tampa Bay, including our great Stanley Cup win, and this night will be extremely special and emotional for my family and me.”
“I am happy I will get to share the evening with all the Lightning fans who have always supported me throughout my career – Tampa Bay will always feel like home to me. Additionally, I recognize that none of this would have been possible without the help of many great teammates, trainers, and coaches and I thank them.”
Despite the hard feelings that remain from St. Louis’ hasty exit from the team, this is certainly warranted. Martin St. Louis is the best player to ever don a Lightning sweater.
Follow me on Twitter @LightningShout and please “like” LightningShout on Facebook. You can email us at [email protected].
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
