Those were the tearful words of Tie Domi as he officially announced his retirement from the game on Tuesday.

Domi was bought out by the Leafs in the off-season after failing to produce in a new look N.H.L. that focused more on speed and skill than toughness and intimidation. The Buds couldn't find room for him and while other teams expressed an interest, Domi admits that in the end, he simply couldn't see himself in any other uniform.

"I love the Toronto Maple Leafs," he intoned, choking up. "This is my home. I just couldn't put on another jersey. There were other interests but I couldn't see myself wearing another jersey other than blue and white."

He claims he might have been forced to retire either way based on the feeling he had when he tried skating again earlier this year.

He says having his father see him play in the N.H.L. before his death remains his most satisfying moment, along with simply getting to wear the Leaf uniform.

"I have a number of people to thank for the last 20 years. I'd like to thank all my teammates, trainers, management, coaches, owners and those who have taken many into their hearts and into their homes."

"I was very fortunate to be here a long time. I kiss my lucky charms as one of the few guys who got to play here for so long and become a household name in this city is something that obviously always will remember for the rest of your life."

Domi may be gone from the ice, but he won't be out of the public eye. He's accepted a job as a colour analyst for a national hockey broadcaster, and pledges to continue the charitable work that has made him such a hero in the city.

As for his budding broadcasting career, Domi gives a typical response.

"I'm a rookie again," he half laughs. "But I told somebody the other day.when I was a rookie, I didn't take any s**t and I'm not going to take any s**t now."

The man who occupies fourth place on the all time penalty list (with just over 3,500 minutes) claims his biggest regret during his years with Toronto is never bringing the fans a Stanley Cup victory.

Domi is only 36-years-old and has played for the Rangers and the Jets, but it's his tenure with the Leafs that made him a fan favourite here. But it was clear the end was near.

He scored only five goals last year on a contract that paid him $1.25 million. He had two years left on his deal but there won't be any tag days for Tie.

His teammates expressed their gratitude for his many years watching their backs.

"The way he was giving back to the community through all these years and played in Toronto, he was a big part of the maple leafs organization and a big part of the community," said Leafs captain Mats Sundin.

"He was one of the toughest guys to ever play the game," adds defenceman Bryan McCabe. "There's a guy who's known for standing up for his teammates at all costs. It was a pleasure to play with him."