Blogger Says Goodbye

As many of you know, I am leaving the team Friday to pursue a career opportunity outside of football.

For a lifelong fan of the game, it’s a painful switch but I’m moving with a smile on my face and an appreciation for everything fans, players, coaches and colleagues have given me over the past three seasons in Atlanta and four additional seasons in the NFL.

Every moment has been fantastic.

Thank you all.

Perhaps you’ve taken note of my enthusiasm in more than 2,000 blog posts on AF.com and numerous articles across the web and NFL publications.

But, as is the case in the light-speed world of new media, I’ve been called to move quickly to the next phase of my life. I take this step with wonderful memories and the hope my blogging — and your support — won’t end once I hit “publish.”

Our staff cartoonist and message board contributor, “Superfan,” sums it up with this special cartoon, which I’ll always cherish.

Many of you have asked why I’m leaving the Falcons. My answer is ‘I’m leaving the building, but not the fan base.’

Too much of my heart is invested to this great game and the organization to simply disappear into Atlanta rush hour with the rest of the business world.

Some of the most uplifting moments of my professional life came in employee of Arthur Blank and this team.

It started in confusion and hurt, but ends with great amounts of hope.

My time in Atlanta began the day before the start of 2007 training camp. It was, without a doubt, the most tumultuous time in franchise history.

The team went 4-12 in my first season and I experienced the pain and frustration caused by a head coach’s abandonment and disappearance of trust.

That’s what made the bounce back to 11-5 and a playoff experience in 2008 so memorable. It also solidified my respect for Head Coach Mike Smith and General Manager Thomas Dimitroff.

It’s what put this franchise in a position to rise up.

It’s what inspired all of you to keep believing a curse could be broken.

It’s what makes us all know the best is yet to come.

Fans need to know our team is in the hands of some of the best football minds — and men — I’ve ever known. Their authenticity is unmatched and they’re supported by a great group of business leaders to ensure long-term success.

It’s those relationships and service to you, the fans, I’m going to miss the most. This team is magnetic and if you spend any time getting to know what it’s all about you’ll get pulled like me.

Yes, I’m saying “goodbye.”

but it’s not forever.

Look for me in the stands in 2010 and beyond.