Nashville, TN - Matt Carle and the Nashville Predators announced Friday that the defenseman is retiring from the National Hockey League after a successful, 12-season career.

"It has been an honor to be a player in the National Hockey League and play for four great organizations over the past 12 seasons," Carle said. "At this time, I have decided to retire as a National Hockey League player. I want to thank the San Jose Sharks, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning and the Nashville Predators for the opportunity to play for each organization. I would also like to thank all the fans that I have met throughout my career for the support that you have given me. Most importantly, I want to thank my family for all the sacrifices they have made on behalf of my career. My Parents, brothers, and wife Clancey allowed me to focus on the pursuit of playing the best sport in the world, in the best League in the world and I will always be grateful."