Nashville Predators captain Mike Fisher is embarking on a whole new journey.
On Thursday, the 37-year-old center announced his plans to retire from the NHL after 17 seasons, following the Predators’ impressive Stanley Cup run earlier this year.
“This is the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make, but I know I’ve made the right one,” Fisher penned in an emotional sendoff with The Tennessean.
“Closing a chapter like this — one that’s lasted 17 years — makes me think about the support I’ve received my whole life from my family, friends, even people I’ve never met that have prayed for me throughout my career,” he wrote. “It’s impossible to thank every one of them, but I’ll try.”
Fisher’s biggest supporter, wife Carrie Underwood, 34, expressed her gratitude for her spouse of seven years with a touching Instagram tribute.
“Captain @mfisher1212 I sure am going to miss watching you play and cheering you on with the rest of Smashville, but I so look forward to seeing what God has in store for you in this next chapter of your life,” the country singer shared Thursday. “You’ve given your teammates and the game your all for so many years…you’ve worked so hard and made us all so proud!”
Fisher’s impressive career stats include 276 goals overall, with 309 assists in 1,088 games. He has played for the Predators since 2011 following 11 seasons with the Ottawa Senators.
“Isaiah and I love you so much and are so excited to be able to have you home a lot more…We can’t wait to cheer on the @predsnhl WITH you in the stands!” Underwood said.
Fisher and Underwood welcomed their only child, son Isaiah, in February 2015. The trio celebrated Fisher’s 1,000th NHL game on the ice last March.