Edmonton (CFL.ca) - Longtime Eskimo middle linebacker A.J. Gass announced his retirement today, after ten seasons with the club. “A decision like this is never easy to arrive at, but I’m excited to start on the new phase of my football career and I’m thrilled to be doing that here in Edmonton,? says Gass.
Gass has accepted a position on the 2008 Eskimo coaching staff as a defensive assistant. Eskimo Director of Football Operations & Head Coach Danny Maciocia says, “On the field, A.J. Gass played with heart, toughness and intelligence and I believe he’ll carry those qualities with him to become a very successful coach.?
Gass originally signed with the Eskimos on May 21, 1998. The Fresno State product quickly became a menace on defence and special teams and emerged as a leader both on and off the field and a fan favourite at Commonwealth Stadium. In 131 career games, Gass amassed 440 defensive tackles, 90 special teams tackles, 13 pass knockdowns, 12 quarterback sacks, eight forced fumbles, 22 tackles for losses, 10 fumble returns and three interceptions. He also played in six playoff games and two Grey Cups, winning them both in 2003 and 2005.
In 2007, Gass missed the first three games of the season after undergoing knee surgery for an injury suffered during training camp. He started the last 15 games of the season, racking up 47 defensive tackles, one special teams tackle, three knockdowns, two quarterback sacks, six tackles for losses and one fumble recovery.
An active member in the community, Gass was nominated for the CFLPA’s Tom Pate Award in 2002 and 2004.
[url=http://www.cfl.ca/index.php?module=newser&func=display&nid=22685]http://www.cfl.ca/index.php?module=news ... &nid=22685[/url]I am Glad One of the Biggest Cheep shot Men in CFL History has Retired. He gave Danny Mac a Shot a few years I bet Danny is Still Feeling.
Good Riddance.
Let hope he don't coach like he Played.