Saying Thank You to Rod Smith

I want to thank you for some of the finest years of Denver football I’ve ever seen. You are among the elite athletes that not only belong in Denver’s Ring of Fame but also the leagues Hall of Fame. However, it is not your wealth of talent, nor your tough-as-nails work ethic that has made you such a meaningful icon in Broncos history. You, like few in the modern era, have been the best example of a true team player many of us have seen play pro sports. Your humble and respectful attitude sets you apart from the current crop me-centered athletes. You, and the leaders of our super bowl teams set a standard of quality, sportsmanship and team spirit that has not been seen since. Looking back, it’s easy to see that you, Eddy Mac, Elway, Griffin, and TD (to name a few) were a group of guys more concerns about your team, than about your individual stats and celebrity airtime. Today, it’s rare to find an example that we, as parents, can use with our children when we talk about what it means to be a ‘team player’. You exemplify that principle… and for that (as well as countless spectacular touchdown catches) you will not only be a true hero on the football field — but you will be a legend long after your name has been placed in the Ring of Fame.

Thank you for the memories, we will always love ya!