Tony announces his retirement with a heartfelt and heartbreaking message to RSL nation. Very saddened to read this. I knew it was coming and didn't have any expectations on him returning to the field but now that that it's official I really feel for him. Spent his entire career here. I wish him the best.
RSL legend. He's always been a class act on and off the field. I hope RSL can keep him around in some capacity.
Lovely writing. He's the kind of guy that I like rooting for, as opposed to dotards like John Terry. Its very unusual to have a professional league with so many smart and talented players outside the realm of their sport. I'd say I'll miss him, but he isn't going anywhere at the moment.
I hope he's around in some capacity. I have a feeling he will be. He's always had a way with words. That was really well written.
I shit on Tony a lot for what I perceived his faults that held back the team. I focused so damn much on what he didn't have that I didn't give any credence to what he did. Tony Beltran was one of the biggest keys to our glory days. The guy was asked over and over again to defend some of the best players in the league by himself and damn near always was the one who won the night. This retirement makes me sad. He still had a lot to give but his body, through some terrible luck, wasn't able to execute. I truly hope he stays involved with the club. He's always been an advocate of expanding knowledge and not taking for granted what you are afforded. He should be in the academy yesterday. His presence as an administrator at the school is a no-brainer. His influence and way with words inspires and belong in a setting where the sky can feel the limit. Thank you Tony Beltran for years of service.
Wonderfully heartfelt writing. Maybe he had an editor's help, but it's obvious those are his sentiments.