Most Professional Athletes

MOST PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES retire in their 30s. A few survive into their 40s, but virtually none compete past 50. In 1997, however, Gordie Howe strapped on his skates as his 70th birthday approached.

Beginning in 1947, the five-time National Hockey League MVP played 25 years for the Detroit Red Wings. After a brief retirement, he signed with the Houston Aeros of the new World Hockey Association, joining sons Mark and Marty as teammates. Howe finished his hockey career in 1980.

Since the 21-time All-Star had suited up professionally from the ’40s to the ’80s, the Detroit Vipers of the International Hockey League offered him the opportunity to add the ’90s to his resume. At age 69, Howe relished the chance to skate once more in his adopted city.

Wearing his familiar No. 9, the Hall-of-Famer entered the arena to a standing ovation of 20,182 fans. Howe remained on the ice for only 47 seconds and never touched the puck. However, Brad Shaw’s shot did deflect off his leg toward the Kansas City Blades’ net before being stopped by goalie Jon Casey.

The former Red Wing skated off to a final rousing ovation and took a seat on the bench. After the second period, he left the game for a quick press conference.

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POINT Gordie Howe accomplished many feats in his long career. He scored 801 goals, made 1,049 assists, played in 1,767 regular-season games, and won four Stanley Cups. And it was a real bonus for him to put on his skates and play just before turning 70.

The Bible says our days are numbered and our life is fleeting. Like Gordie Howe, we should make the most of all the years we have. There’s no time like now to begin.

GOAL! Think about your goals for the next few decades of your life.