It is hard to imagine Patrick Marleau in anything but a San Jose Sharks sweater.
For 19 seasons, Marleau spent his entire playing career with the Sharks before darting off to Toronto during free agency. Two months after signing with the Maple Leafs, Marleau has finally addressed Sharks fans and community that he has called home in a full-page ad in the SJ Mercury Times and East Bay Times.
From today's SJ Mercury News. Thank you San Jose. pic.twitter.com/dkHzfX5qoc
— Christina Marleau (@c_marleau) September 3, 2017
Full transcript of Marleau's message:
Since June of 1997, San Jose has been my home; where my dreams of becoming an NHL player came true when I was drafted.
During the last 20 years, I have had the unprecedented fortune to continue to play for this organization, make lifetime friendships, work with the best training staff, met my wife, and started our family, and play in front of incredible, enthusiastic fans. San Jose will always be my home; where my children will grow up, and the Sharks will always hold a special place in my heart.
I have felt and appreciated by everyone here, and I want to thank you all — every one of the teammates I've had, Doug Wilson, and everyone in the Sharks organization, training staff, current and past coaching staff, Hasso and all of the other past and present owners of the team, fans, friends, and people in this wonderful community.
Without every single one of you, I would not have had the career I have had so far, and I know that.
You all have my deepest respect and admiration
Marleau, 37, signed a three-year deal worth $18.75 million with the Maple Leafs in July. His decision to leave the only NHL team he had ever played for wasn't one that was an made with ease.
"I think I wore out a few carpets pacing around the house trying to make this decision," Marleau told reporters after he signed with Toronto. "The decision took me quite awhile to come to it, but I've made it, and I'm happy with it."
Fortunately for Marleau, he won't have to wait much longer to make his return to the SAP Center. The Maple Leafs play in San Jose on Oct. 30.