Not every professional athlete has a chance to publically thank those who made their dreams come true.

After nine years, it is time for me to retire from the sport.

Nine years is a long time to play but I am thankful I have spent half of that time preparing for today.

You never know what to expect on the football field and, with an assortment of injuries over time, I am very happy I spent the time to prepare.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention concussions. Going forward, I look to being an advocate for brain health. I hope more people learn your brain is the most important muscle and most vital asset you have.

Now, I would like to thank the Calgary Stampeders — Coach Hufnagel, Coach Mueller, Coach Dickenson and Coach Monson, George Hopkins, Pat Clayton, Mike Gudmundson, Josh Termeer, Dmitri Tsoumpas, Ross Folan and our video guys.

And the guys upsatirs in the front office — Mike Petrie, Stan Schwartz and Ken King.

I also want to acknowledge the CFL. The Canadian Football League truly aspires to excellence and will continue to inspire young Canadian athletes as it did me, who fell in love with the sport of football as a 12-year-old.

And to the fans, the league could not exist without you and I thank you for your support.

I would also like to thank the media who love our sport and all those who sell our game and work behind the scenes.

To my teammates — Rob Cote, Juwan Simpson, Bo Levi Mitchell, Keon Raymond, Fred Bennett, Matt Walter, Brett Jones, Shane Bergman, Dan Federkeil, Drew Tate, Rob Maver, Rene Paredes, Deron Mayo . . .

We always played with the same goal — to be champions — and also, we played for the love of the game.

Now, going forward?

Playing football in the CFL has changed my life and allowed me to see how important giving back is. I know every person in our locker room understands the importance of service and helping others.

I am proud to remain in Calgary for this reason, because this is a city which looks out for their fellow people and lends a helping hand when they can. Inspired by the leadership of Mayor Nenshi, I look forward to helping this city continue to be the best place to live in Canada and one of the greatest cities in the world.

Thank you again everyone, I am deeply grateful.

Jon Cornish, #9