GOV. RITTER PROCLAIMS OCTOBER 1, 2009, “JOE SAKIC DAY”

Gov. Bill Ritter today proclaimed October 1, 2009, “Joe Sakic Day” throughout the State of Colorado. The Governor joined with Mayor Hickenlooper to honor the longtime Avalanche captain and superstar, proclaiming the day of the Avalanche’s opening game for the 2009-2010 season as “Joe Sakic Day.” During a ceremony before the game, the Colorado Avalanche will retire Sakic’s number 19 jersey, as he becomes only the third Avalanche player to have his jersey hang from the rafters at the Pepsi Center. The Avalanche captain since 1992, Joe cemented himself as a fan favorite after leading the Avalanche to two Stanley Cup titles, first in 1996 and again in 2001.

“Joe’s magnificent career with the Nordiques and our beloved Avalanche gave Coloradans a reason to cheer year after year,” said Gov. Ritter. “His inspirational leadership and clutch performances made him a hero of the game to millions around the state, nation, and world. He was a leader on and off the ice, and a true role model, not just in the sports world, but for people throughout Colorado.”