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Roberts Made An Impact

Tribune file photo by JASON BEHNKEN

Roberts played his final game with the Lightning on March 1 in Calgary, the city where his career began.

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By ERIK ERLENDSSON

eerlendsson@tampatrib.com

Published: March 10, 2009

Updated: 03/10/2009 11:46 pm

OTTAWA - Steven Stamkos added one more collectable to his growing menagerie of hockey memorabilia when Gary Roberts left a signed stick for the Lightning rookie at his locker stall last week. It turned out to be one of the last acts for the veteran winger, who announced his retirement from the game Tuesday after 1,224 games and one Stanley Cup championship.

"I am extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to be a part of this great league," Roberts said. "The game has been so good to me and I will always be thankful for having had so many years doing what I loved to do."

Roberts retires as one of three players in league history to record at least 400 goals and 2,500 penalty minutes, playing the game with skill and grit throughout his career. But Roberts was also known for his leadership abilities, particularly late in his career with younger players, displaying what it takes to prepare and be ready to play. That was evident when he was forced to retire at the age of 30 because of a serious neck injury, but was able to work his way back through intense rehabilitation and joined the Carolina Hurricanes.

"Gary had a major impact on our franchise in terms of how we skate and how we practice. We were a sluggish team before Gary arrived and he changed the culture with his presence," Carolina coach Paul Maurice said. "He was absolutely a born leader. He loved to play hockey and he loved to compete. Gary set a terrific example for our young players with his passion for the game. From our players to our coaches, Gary Roberts had a big, big impact on the Carolina Hurricanes."

The Lightning hope Roberts' influence in the short time he spent with Tampa Bay has an impact on the team's younger players such as Stamkos.

"His leadership, professionalism and guidance will be felt for years because our young players were able to watch, listen and learn from one of the true greats of the game," Lightning general manager Brian Lawton said.

Stamkos, the overall No. 1 pick in the 2008 draft, said it was a little intimidating to meet Roberts after hearing stories of his workout regiment, but the two bonded quickly as Roberts and his wife, Michelle, often had Stamkos over for dinner throughout the season.

"He couldn't have been a nicer guy for helping me become a better person and a better player. I can't thank him enough," Stamkos said. "He had such a wonderful NHL career and I wish him and his family the best. Words can't really describe what he did for me this year. He was there when things weren't going well at the beginning of the year, giving me advice whenever he could."

Reporter Ira Kaufman contributed to this report. Reporter Erik Erlendsson can be reached at (813) 259-7835.

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