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Friday, 23 September 2011 12:01

Written by Seth Rorabaugh

Former North Stars/Stars/Red Wings forward Mike Modano announced his retirement Wednesday. First among all American-born players with 561 goals and 1,374 points, Modano was a face of what was best extended era for United States hockey from the mid 1990s through the early 2000s.

Along with the likes of Tony Amonte, Doug Weight, Brian Leetch and others, Modano helped establish the United States as an elite power in international hockey by winning the 1996 World Cup of Hockey.

Another key member of that 1996 team as well as other United States teams was Bill Guerin, who is currently the Penguins' player development coach. In addition to playing with Modano on numerous international stages, he played three seasons with Modano in Dallas during the early 2000s.

Last night, he spoke about his former teammate:

What are your memories of Modano?

"I’ve known Mike since we were 18 years old. We played World Juniors together. We played in three Olympics, two World Cups and the Dallas Stars. We’ve been good friends for a long time. We’ve been through a lot together. He’s become a good friend. Just to see the type of career he’s had is great. Couldn’t have been more proud to have played with him and have him as a teammate."

How vital was he to the success of Team USA?

"He was huge to that success. He was one of the guys leading the charge. We all looked up to his skill level, his approach the game and the things he could do on the ice. Very, very instrumental in the success we had in that era."

Where does the 1996 World Cup win rank in terms of success for Team USA?

"Two. For me, it was a really big obstacle playing against a really powerful Canadian team in Canada. I don’t think anything will ever surpass (the 1980 Olympic team). That was the ultimate. We were second."

What kind of captain was Modano?

"Mike always led by example. He didn’t say much in the locker room. He went out an preformed. And guys followed that. He didn’t really need to say anything because his play always did the talking."

What does he mean to the Stars franchise?

"He is the face of the franchise. That’s going to be hard to duplicated. Not many franchises have guys like that. He’s a dedicated player and dedicated to the Dallas Stars."

 Is he the best American player of all time?

(Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

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