In 2015-2016 a lot of things have come or are coming to an end; some good and some bad.
Some good such as the 52-year championship drought for the city of Cleveland.
However, there is always another side of the spectrum and this sports season is no different.
During these 365 days, the sports world have or will bid farewell to 13 players who have been instrumental to so many people in the years they played their respective games.
Some of the players that are retiring this season or have retired are:
· Kobe Bryant
· Tim Duncan
· Charles Woodson
· Marshawn Lynch
· Calvin Johnson
· Peyton Manning
· David Ortiz
· Mark Texeira
· Prince Fielder
· Tony Stewart
· Jeff Gordon
· Usain Bolt
· Michael Phelps
From looking at the list, these athletes have all made an impact on the world in a multitude of sports. All ranging from auto racing to international sports.
Combined the athletes make up for:
· 18 League Championships
· 22 Most Valuable Player Awards
· 83 All-Star/Pro Bowl Appearances
· 182 Gold Medals
· 5 Rookie of the Year Awards
· 12 Silver Slugger Awards
· 7 Cup Series Championships
· 2 Comeback Player of the Year Awards
While all of these players are leaving some big shoes to fill for those who trail them, the road will only get tougher.
With Alex Rodriguez unofficially retiring from baseball, Kevin Garnett struggling to find a team in the NBA and Tiger Woods on a steep decline; one can only ask how much longer for those players.
Not to mention LeBron James is entering his 14th NBA season, Tom Brady entering his 16th NFL season and Albert Pujols currently playing in his 16th MLB season, the younger guys across the board must be ready for the road that lies ahead.
Without question, with young players like Kyrie Irving, Russell Wilson and Mike Trout the future looks bright.
But one thing must be accepted, it is truly the dawn of a new era in the world of sports.