Showing posts with label Manning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manning. Show all posts

Monday, March 19, 2012

Turn of Phrase - Un-Retiring #18 for Peyton

 Former NFL QB Frank Tripucka
"That was a pretty nice honor. But if Peyton wants the number, they should give it to him. They definitely should.”

- From Broncos first-ever QB Frank Tripucka, when asked what should happen if Peyton Manning wants to wear the #18 jersey in Denver. The #18 jersey, worn by Tripucka during his time with the Broncos (1960-1963), had been ceremonially retired in 1986.

Whether Peyton will accept the generous offer from the 84 year-old Tripucka remains to be seen. Regardless, you don't find that kind of courtesy and selflessness much in professional sports any more.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Turn of Phrase - So Long, Peyton

Peyton Manning, Colts #18
"As I go, I go with just a few words left to say, a few words I want to address to Colts fans everywhere - thank you from the bottom of my heart...I truly have enjoyed being your quarterback."

- From Peyton Manning's parting remarks to the Indianapolis Colts.

Peyton's conduct during today's farewell press conference is an object lesson in staying classy.

As I watched Manning's emotional address, and I listened to the sincere message of thanks he sent to his former boss, his teammates, the Colts organization, and to millions of fans across the country, I realized that loyalty is not dead in sports. It's just not always a two-way street.

During his comments, Peyton talked about respect, reflection, and gratitude, all of which are among the thoughtful traits he brings to the sport of football. He also reminded us of the value of maintaining perspective, and he specifically mentioned the importance of remembering the victims of recent tornado devastation in Indiana and the midwest.

There may not be crying in baseball, but after seeing Peyton deliver his final words as a Colt today, there's definitely crying in football and not too many dry eyes in the house.