One of the best players to ever represent Airdrie has retired from the sport of Hockey and is now opening up about the decision.

Former Airdrie Xtreme and Tampa Lightning Draft pick Dana Tyrell, called it a career late last year after playing only a few games with the Wichita Thunder of the ECHL.

Tyrell finally spoke out to Discover Airdrie recently about why he made the tough decisions.

“My right knee, I’ve already had two surgeries on and I tore my MCL just four games in,” says Tyrell, “My knee just doesn’t feel stable enough to continue playing. I just didn’t want to go through another surgery and whatever takes place with those kinds of injuries again.”

Following a nearly two year hiatus from playing, Tyrell tried out with the Bakersfield Condors last fall and while he didn’t make the team, he was excited about the challenge ahead in Wichita.

Sadly, the injuries to his knee stopped that challenge short and Tyrell knew the time was right.

“My heart kinda wasn’t into playing the game anymore. It was a tough transition but I’ve been so grateful for my career and everything that I’ve done in the game and super happy for Airdrie Minor Hockey and all the organizations through Airdrie that helped me get to the professional level.”

Although he knew it was the right decision at the time, Tyrell admits it was not easy.

(Photo Courtesy: Johnna Raymond/Wichita Thunder)

“It was a difficult decision. The injury definitely had a lot to do with it but it was something that was on my mind for probably over a year. Hockey’s all I’ve ever done my entire life, it’s all I ever really known and all I know how to do. I’m just excited to learn new skills now and move on with my life.”

Tyrell is currently in Phoenix and does plan to return home by the end of the month and although he won’t be playing competitively, he’s looking forward to whatever challenge comes his way.

“I don’t really know what’s going to happen next but it will all take care of itself. Whatever I decide to do it’s all going to be good. My work ethic has never been questioned and whatever comes my way I know I’m going to put my best foot forward and succeed in it.”

In his NHL career, Tyrell played in 135 games registering 7 goals and 17 assists.

He also played in 232 games with the Norfolk Admirals and Syracuse Crunch scoring a total of 47 goals.

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