Emrick retirement prompts outpouring of love on social media

Leagues, teams, colleagues, players and fans line up to congratulate legendary announcer

Emrick_waves

© Andy Marlin/Getty Images

By Dan O'Leary
@DanOLeary25 NHL.com Staff Writer

Over a period of nearly five decades, Mike "Doc" Emrick became an iconic broadcaster, ambassador for the game of hockey and friend to many in the game.
Known for his extensive vocabulary and passionate calls, Emrick was like no other. He
retired on Monday after 47 years in the business
. An outpouring of love flowed out on social media.

So many fans wanted to thank Emrick for his many years calling hockey's biggest games -- the past 15 as the lead play-by-play voice for the "NHL on NBC" -- that the network's Twitter account set up a "virtual handshake line" where everyone could show their appreciation.

NBC also shared a tribute video, called by none other than the man himself.

Fans, teams and pretty much anyone who has ever worked with Emrick wanted to wish him well on his retirement.
The ECHL's Maine Mariners, where Emrick broadcast from 1977-79, one of his first gigs in hockey, shared their congratulations.

In 1982-83, he took over as voice of the New Jersey Devils. He would later form an entertainig tandem with former NHL goalie Glenn "Chico" Resch.
Tweet from @NJDevils: Simply, incredible. Enjoy your retirement, Doc.#ThankYouDoc | @NHLonNBCSports pic.twitter.com/jBwTnJv9bq
He also worked for the Philadelphia Flyers during the 1980s.

Flyers alumni shared a terrific throwback picture of Emrick and broadcast partner Bill Clement.

Columbus Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno had some kind words for Ermick.

Foligno wasn't the only current or former NHL player to send well-wishes.

Emrick's former NBC co-worker Kenny Albert also paid tribute to Emrick.

Emrick, always on point and always entertaining, did a
feature for this website where he read lines from the iconic hockey comedy classic movie "Slap Shot"
back in 2017.

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