Ken Hitchcock’s second stint with the Dallas Stars was a short one as the longtime NHL coach announced his retirement Friday.

"The game of hockey has been my entire life and I could never repay what the game did for me and all the wonderful people I got to meet in my career," Hitchcock wrote in a letter posted on the Stars' website. "I would like to thank everyone for their support and friendship over the years. I have contemplated this since our last game and I came to the conclusion that now is the right time to step away and let the younger generation of coaches take over."

Hitchcock, 66, ranks third all-time in career regular-season wins with 823 behind only Scotty Bowman (1,244) and Joel Quenneville (884). He began his career in Dallas in 1995 and won a Stanley Cup with the Stars in 1999.

After being fired by Dallas during the 2001-02 season, Hitchcock went on to coach the Flyers, Blue Jackets and Blues over the next 15 years before returning to Dallas last offseason.

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The Stars missed the Stanley Cup playoffs this year with a 42-32-8 record.

Hitchcock retires with 14 playoff appearances, eight division titles and one Stanley Cup. He will remain with the Stars as a consultant.

"Ken Hitchcock is an icon when it comes to head coaches, not only in hockey, but across all of sports," Stars general manager Jim Nill said in a release. "He poured his whole life into better understanding in-game concepts and strategy, inspiring players and enhancing teams. He leaves an indelible mark on the game and his influence will be felt across the sport for years to come. We want to thank Ken for all that he has given throughout his coaching career."