Former Amerks captain Bagnall calling it quits

Drew Bagnall, who personified grit and a team-first style for eight pro seasons, has retired from hockey.

His mind and heart were likely willing to continue but his body has been battered from a career of jarring hits, net-mouth battles and protect-his-teammates determination.

Injuries limited him to just 41 games last season, and he played in only 51 the year before, his first with the Rochester Americans.

He said on Sunday night via text message that he has "decided to hang 'em up" and that's he's "looking for a big-boy job in the real world."

Bagnall, 31, played four seasons at St. Lawrence University and then turned pro with the Los Angeles Kings organization in 2007-08. He played eight American Hockey League seasons (three with the Manchester Monarchs, three with the Houston Aeros and the past two with the Amerks).

Shoulder injuries and then a knee injury deprived him of a great deal of playing time, and the Amerks' of his on-ice leadership and snarl.

Bagnall may have been a perfect candidate to transition into coaching. He understands very well what is required to succeed, and knows the defensive-zone game extremely well, and is a great leader and communicator.

But he said his wife, Kristyn, stuck by him for eight years while he chased his dream and now its his turn to ensure she can have her own career. They live in Edmonton.

"The game has given me great memories," he said.