Fromer Bruins defenseman Aaron Ward announced today that he is hanging up his skates and retiring from the NHL. The 37-year-old blueliner was originally drafted in the fifth round by the Winnipeg Jets in 1991. He went on to play 839 career regular season games over parts of 15 NHL seasons before wrapping up his career as a member of the Anaheim Ducks. Ward played for five different NHL clubs, including parts of three seasons with the Bruins. The defensive-minded Ward notched 151 points (44-107-151) in his career and etched his name on the Stanley Cup three times.
Ward was a fan favorite here in The Hub due largely to his workman-like approach to the game and his role on the popular morning drive radio show, Toucher & Rich. Ward's entertaining weekly interviews on T&R were a must listen for any B's fan. His ease in front of a microphone on Toucher & Rich gave a glimpse into Ward's life after hockey. Ward, who studied journalism at the University of Michigan, worked as a guest analyst on Versus and TSN during this year's NHL playoffs and has expressed interest in continuing his career in broadcasting. That's right, he is now one of the "sheep".
If a career in broadcasting doesn't work out for Ward, the personable fan favorite can always run for office. In which case, I will be his campaign manager. Remember, Aaron Ward has a proven track record of being a winner and his stance on the tough issues is clear. I don't care what his Wikipedia page says to the contrary.
I think I speak for the majority of Bruins fans when I say that I wish Aaron Ward great success in whatever he chooses to do after hockey. Thanks for making things fun around here for a few years.