Thanks, Brett

My first recollection of Brett Favre, was in mid October 1995, when I first moved to Milwaukee from Toronto. Until then, I had no idea what all the "Packer fuss" was about.

While in Toronto, I was a Buffalo Bills fan (and endured the four Jim Kelly Super Bowl defeats!).

As anyone can tell you there's something about Wisconsin that makes it almost impossible NOT to become a Packers fan. Monday morning water cooler discussions make it manditory that you watch Sunday's game. Packer fan devotion is contageous.

And so, it was on Sunday October 15th 1995, that I began to become a Brett Favre fan. The first game I watched, Brett led a win over the dreaded Detroit Lions.

And I've been watching (and cheering) for the Green and Gold ever since.

Like virtually everyone in Wisconsin, I was shocked at yesterday's news of Brett's retirement. Last year was very successful - we were an overtime loss away from going to the Super Bowl. And no one could argue that Brett still had the talent to compete at the highest levels.

But to be successful in the NFL, it requires a tremendous amount of mental toughness to endure, to prepare, to win week after week.

And after 17 seasons, Brett simply got tired.

And to his credit, he realized that without a 100% mental commitment to the effort of one more campaign, it simply wasn't worth the personal sacrifice. He would run the risk of letting down his team and his fans.

What a great way to leave the game - as a folk hero, as a living legend, a genuinely down to earth, humble, nice guy.

And with virtually every record in the record book.

And with the fans wanting more.

Congratulations on a fantastic career and thanks for a great ride!