A series of concussions made a tough decision a little easier for Dave Dickenson.
The 36-year-old husband and father made his retirement from pro football official yesterday at McMahon Stadium, adamant that his life away from the game is more important than the risk of further injury.
“The time is right,” said Dickenson, who lives in Calgary with wife Tammy and sons Cooper and Avery.
“I’m at peace with the decision and I feel privileged to have the career I’ve had. Everything went exactly like I wanted — I’m ending my career in the same place it started and we won a Grey Cup in my final year.”
The Stampeders pivot claimed Grey Cups as Calgary’s backup in 1998 and 2008, in addition to earning a Cup ring as a starter with the B.C. Lions in 2006. He played six of his 11 CFL seasons in Calgary colours.
Dickenson was named the Canadian Football League’s Most Outstanding Player in 2000 before bolting to the NFL’s San Diego Chargers. He returned to B.C. in 2003 before signing with Calgary last year.
Last season Dickenson completed five of nine passes for the Stamps before suffering the fourth concussion of his career in the annual Labour Day Classic against Edmonton. It was the last time he stepped on the field.
Dickenson could turn to coaching, although his future plans remain unclear.
His brother, Craig Dickenson, is the Stampeders’ special teams coach.
