The sporting world says thank you to Zdeno Chara

Zdeno Chara made it official yesterday, as he retired from the NHL by signing a one-day contract with the Boston Bruins, just like it should be.

Chara spent 24 years in the NHL (14 with the Bruins) and skated in 1,680 games, recording 680 points and 2,085 penalty minutes. Along the way, the defenseman collected the Norris Trophy (2009) and a Stanley Cup (2011).

''Big Zee'' not only stood above everyone else on the ice at 6'9'', but stood out to many off the ice as well, in the way he was a very respected human being. Chara's retirement shined a light on his amazing hockey career, but it also showed how many people's lives he impacted for the better.

Several people and fellow professional athletes and teams shared their congratulations with Chara, following him hanging up the skates. Check them out below:

Former teammate and current Bruins captain Patrice Bergeron:

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