Friday was Eli Manning’s day. He officially announced his retirement from professional football and was greeted with a sendoff that was befitting of his time with the New York Giants.
Manning was surrounded by owners, executives, agents, current teammates, former teammates and perhaps most importantly of all, his family — his wife, Abby, their four children, as well as his parents, Archie of Olivia.
It was an emotional moment for all. A 16-year journey was coming to an end, and for the first time in more than a decade and a half, Eli is now just a husband, a father and a son.
“I also want to take this opportunity to thank Olivia and Archie Manning for raising such an outstanding son and to Abby, for being so supportive of Eli for all these years. We would not be standing here today celebrating his great career, if not for everything you guys did,” co-owner John Mara said.
Manning’s career has undoubtedly taken a toll on his family. The long hours, the long seasons, the constant traveling… It’s a substantial storm to weather, especially for Abby, who has been at home taking care of four kids.
Manning made sure to recognize that in his speech.
“I don’t think I need to make public comments for my family to know how I think about them, but Abby, and to Ava and Lucy and Caroline and Charlie, you are my rock,” Manning said while holding back tears.
We all owe a bit of gratitude to Archie, Olivia, Abby and the four little ones. Without their love and patience, a move to New York and 16 years in the NFL may not have gone off without a hitch.
Where would the Giants be, and where would Eli have been without them holding down the fort behind-the-scenes?
Thank you to Abby and the whole Manning family for ensuring that the entirety of Giants Nation was able to go on this remarkably rewarding journey.
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