For the past 20 years I have had the pleasure and privilege of being a Columbus Blue Jacket. In 1999, I joined the team as a scout. In 2000, I embarked on a broadcasting career that has spanned the 19 years since on radio and FOX Sports Ohio. And while my time here has been "as good as it gets" and I've loved every minute of it, I have informed the club and network that the current season will be my last. I've decided to retire.

This is something I have thought about for quite a while and it just feels like the time is right. Most of you are aware of the cancer fight I've waged over the past few years and while I feel great, I want to continue to focus on my health and my family, spend more time at our place in Florida and play more golf!

I've spent most of my adult life working in and around the great game of hockey and will forever be grateful to the many people I have met and lifelong friends I've made along the way. I am truly blessed and fulfilled. While the number of people I want to thank is too high to list here, I do want to thank my broadcast partners George Matthews, Jeff Rimer and Brian Giesenschlag, the fine folks at FOX Sports Ohio, 97.1 The Fan, CD102.5 and all the coaches, players, general managers and wonderful people in the game that I've had the pleasure of working with over the years. I also want to thank my family and friends for their love, support and inspiration during this journey and the best fans in hockey, The 5th Line, many of whom have become dear friends.

Finally, I'd like to thank the McConnell family and all my fellow Blue Jackets for allowing me to "live the dream" and be part of this wonderful organization for the past two decades. While I am looking forward to retirement, I also look forward to continuing to be a part of the CBJ family and helping to grow the game I love in our community.

Sincerely,

Bill Davidge