What are your thoughts on John Madden's announcement?

Post your commment here

I will miss you, good luck and enjoy your family.

Wow from Introductry to Dance taught by Coach Madden at Allan Hancock, to Cal Poly ... then pro and being the voice of football... thank you!

John Madden brought an honesty and knowledge to his broadcasts that made the games. He will be sorely missed.

After years of listening to the KCBS morning sports chat, I have learned that John Madden: is a man who truly loves his job. You can hear it in his voice. made Al Michaels a better sports announcer [remember old Monday Night Football before John] knows the GAME is the star of the show. is still the kid from "top of the hill" Daly City

and even perhaps the country at the announcement of Madden's retirement. He will be terribly missed!!!! Thanks for everything John!! All the Best.

I just want to say a big Thank You to John Madden for all the fun sports news! I moved here to SFO 4 years ago and listen to the radio every morning - awaiting his latest. Before arriving here I knew NOTHING about football, but now thanks to John, I can actually have conversations with my husband about his favorite sport! (not to mention I have learned about golfing, bocci, and even turkey dinners!) I hope he continues to visit us on KCBS everyday even though he is retiring and I wish him the best!

We love you John Madden, and congratulate you on a new beginning in your life.I looked forward to watching football with you every week,you will def be missed. You coached my brother-n-law in Santa Maria and I have followed your career, and tried so hard to win those darn BBQ tickets w/out success!!! :-) I hope we will still hear you on KCBS every morning...Thanks for all... (My son absolutley LOVES your games!!)Enjoy time w/your family...you deserve it and they deserve you.... a diehard John Madden Fan.. from the bay area.

Familiar voices on the radio brought my dad and I great comfort when I was a child. I am so happy to have found a voice on the radio, every morning, that has brought me comfort, laughter, and information about sports. It takes me back. I don't know if your retirement from TV includes the radio too, but if it does, then "thanks for the memories!"

I'm not much of a sports nut but I always listened to John on the KCBS sports chat. I appreciate John's down-to-earth commentary and insight. I wish John the best in his retirement. I'll really miss hearing him on the air.

Oh no!! Say it isn't so!! Please stay with KCBS! First Herb Caen and Al Hart and now John Madden--how will our days get started???

Dear Mr Madden, I wish you the best in your retirement but will you still be doing your take on sports on the radio? I listen to you every day on my way to work and I will miss your stories and your insight.

John has a take on life that transcends football analysis. It's a must listen. I hope he continues to wake up the Bay Area every morning on KCBS.

John, you are a class act. Your accolades and accomplishments are all well deserved. While I may never have your professional success I strive to have the peace of mind, humility, and love of life and family you do. Enjoy your retirement!

You will be missed. You've done so much for football and for fans of the game- we wish you the very best!

Thank you John. Thank you for the decades of enjoyment that you have provided so many. May your retirement be as successful as your career.

John Madden can retire from coaching and John Madden can retire from broadcasting but John Madden CANNOT retire from his weekly KCBS radio call-ins !

Have followed your career since before you even go to the Raiders. Then followed you with the Raiders, and then as a broadcaster on TV, and of course on KCBS. You are right about this though, when the grandkids get so that they know you are gone, then it's time. Congratulations on your retirement... and enjoy family!

Good Morning 8:15 a.m. sports crew and John Madden. Coach Madden, Thank you from the bottom of my heart (and family) to have shared your many, many years of service to the NFL, the Raiders, KCBS 8:15 show, et cetera. I am sitting here writing this and next to me is my husband's collection of signed Oakland Raider prints on the wall including your signature. You are standing with Ken Stabler on a two minute warning, coaching him what to do and he is listening intensely. That is how I was this morning listening on KCBS about your retirement on every word you said. Congratulations on your retirement and also your upcoming 50th Golden Wedding Anniversary!!! I will always cherish your words of wisdom, sarcasm, jokes, et cetera as you have become one of the family as well as the morning 8:15 crew. We will miss you on T.V. but we will always have you hanging around (on the wall, HA, HA). Thank you also the Madden Family for sharing him with everyone around the world and especially Mrs. Madden. All of you are a First Class Family. Enjoy him and take good care of "The Coach". With warm and loving thoughts of him, Annette & Richard Oliver. P.S. Oh, I do have to mention that my husband is a die-hard, and I mean die-hard Oakland Raider fan since he was 2 years of age--so this has hit him hard as he left to work with teary eyes.

I know very little about football, but I LOVED listening to you in the mornings and on Monday night/Sunday night football. What a wonderful gift you have been to football and the the Bay Area. Thanks to your family for the many years that you missed holidays and special events. They have to be glad that your bus ticket has been revoked.

Thanks for your work as a coach and as an announcer and commentator. I'm not a football fan but you've done a great job to help me, and I hope others, at least appreciate fully what the game is about. Thoroughly enjoy hearing about your experiences with other sports in general. Still looking forward to hearing you at 8:15 in the morning!

You deserve to retire & enjoy your family. You've given all of us so much over the years & I don't know of another sportscaster I enjoy as much. Please tell me you're not leaving KCBS, though...Will we still hear you in the mornings?!

To the man who has always superceded me. Your fame and genuine bigger than life personality has brought notoriety to me just in my name. I wish you and your family the best and hope to meet you some day. Best wishes, John P. Madden Mountain View, CA

Your candid and understandable commentary on the sports world got this middle-aged lady interested in sports for the first time in her life. I suspect your influence has been greater than you'll ever know. Enjoy your retirement, but I hope we'll still hear you on the radio in the morning!

I used to listen to your morning show on my way to pre-school when I was four years old. I've loved sports ever since. Thank you so much for all of your hard work and enjoy your retirement!

You have brought football to the common people. You deserve to retire and enjoy time with your family. Now you can work on your golf game so you can beat Al Michaels! Chris Collinsworth will agree, he has some big shoes to fill. We will all miss you. Mike G. - American Canyon, CA

John, you deserve a long and fulfilling retirement for all the enjoyment and education you have provided to the millions of viewers and listeners!! But hey - what a bummer for we Madden fans! You've added SO much enjoyment to watching the games; always the 1st question in our house (is it a "Madden game") which usually decides whether the remote's mute button gets a workout (no, because it's a Madden game) or BIG workout (because anyone else is talking). The BEST news of all is that you're well and putting your family first - about time you're home for a whole year!! Sure hope to still hear you on KCBS ...

Top 10 things I learned from John Madden: 10. No one cries during “My Old Kentucky Home” anymore. 9. Hitting fungoes is harder than it looks. 8. Ballroom dancing is not for everyone. 7. There’s no difference between hi-def and regular-def. 6.. An NFL playoff game at Lambeau Field is as good as it gets. 5. It’s fun to eat your lunch while your sitting on your breakfast. 4. John Robinson gets bored by the time we get to Stockton. 3. Always take Serena and Tiger vs. the Field. 2. Newfies talk. 1. Don Shula bought his game. John Madden… he’s from here.

Looking forward to still hearing you every morning on KCBS.

Back in the 60's we were sitting in front of John at a local high school game. Kids came up for his autograph but when they found out the Raider player who had the big handlebar mustache was sitting across the field, they ran over there. John's wife said: Well, you know who's important now! John just shrugged. We've loved him ever since

Can't say enough about what you have meant to football, the bay area and humanity in general. Followed you since the Raider days and have especially enjoyed your contributions over the last 10 years. Congratulations on the decision to focus on your family, may we all come to the same realization during our lifetimes. Good luck and thanks for everything.

Hey there John. Football, sports in general, and even turduckens, are so much the better for your years of wonderful service! THANK YOU! You're more than just a lucky guy... you're a great man, and we're the lucky ones. All the best for you! Dennis, Oakland, CA

I just received an emotional call from my wife that you are leaving the microphone! Wow! You will be missed beyond belief. Your joy for the game, thoughtful insight, wonderful sense of humor and your Madden(ness) will be irreplaceable! How selfish ofme to want you to stay with us forever. Enjoy your retirement and your family and don’t be a stranger. Guest appearances will always be welcome. God bless.

Thankfully, I won't miss hearing you. Don't leave your radio gig! We'd have a day of mourning here if you ever left KCBS.

Mr. Madden, from one JHS alumni to another. Best Wishes and God Bless.

I feel very privileged as a fellow Pleasantonite to say Thank You Very Much for all the years. John is the only person around with extaordinary football "field eyes" (the ability to see, anticipate, and explain the emotions and flows on the field). Unique! Truly an Icon. Best wishes and again MANY THANKS!

Thanks John. I hope you continue the radio spots on KCBS, but if not, let me thank you for 10 years of making me smile at 8.15am no matter how bad the traffic was.

As an immigrant I learned to love the game through John's insight and commentary. No-one, but no-one, was as good as he was at showing viewers the game within the game. I'm going to miss him.

You've done well for a kid from Daly City. Congratulations on multiple great careers. Hopefully we'll still hear you on the radio and in video games.

Congratulations Coach John Madden. Love listening to your insights, stories, and experiences on the field and off the field. Thanks for all the good stuff, and teaching me about apple core Baltimore. Got to say you are the best, there is no one close.

I have been following John up and down the dial in the bay area for years, read his books and watch on TV. You are the best and you always make me laugh. Would love to cook for you. I hope you continue on KCBS - you have a great crew working with you.I understand about having grandkidss and wanting to be with them. My 3 grandkids are in Ohio. The best to you and your very understanding wife. Carolyn Scott

I had the priviledge to be part of the Fialho Cooking Crew at John's Hall of Fame celebration. NOBODY can tell a story like John - KCBS crew ask John about his thoughts on the 'talking heads'. From my vantage at the Hall of Fame Parade, John was theonly honoree to receive a standing ovation from the crowd the entire length of the parade. What an entertaining combo KCBS broadcast of John, Tommy Smothers & Bill Murray from the AT&T would be.

I would always try to time my drives so I could listen you John Madden on KCBS. John, you brought the best to football, life and "Ice fishing". You are the most honest in everything you do and tell it like it is! Congratulations to you and thanks for all the memories.

I will miss you immensely and football will never be the same. Enjoy Retirement!!! Pammy

I have been following the "coach" up and down the dial for years and years around the bay area. I've read your books and watched you on TV. I hope you stay on KCBS and help us all get moving in the AM. you have the best crew working with you on the radio - I can't believe you are going - but certainly understand about the grandkids. My grandkids live in Ohio - too far. enjoy your life and you must have the best wife in the world. stay happy - you should have made me laugh for years. would love to cook for you. the best to you. Carolyn Scott

Born on the penninsula, This native and Serra High Graduate has had the volume up on Madden's weekday comintaries for years now. I sometimes get upset if I missed it. John Madden is one of a few who I don't click on the mute button when he is in the broadcast booth. Now I'll go through withdrawals, not really. I wish him all the best and hope he has time to spend in Boulder Creek; since he doesn't have such a busy schedule. I might even have a chance to see him somewhere in the 2 Bay Areas, as we both travel and love this place so much. John Cosgrave

Honorable ... Humorous ... Lives his values ... Respects his profession ... Laughs at himself. The whole package. Thanks! Drew Henry, San Carlos

Over the years, I have absolutely enjoyed you on the football sportscasts. You always have added the humor and enjoyment to football. Enjoy your retirement. It's your family's gain but the public's loss. We will miss you!!!

Best wishes for your retirement. You are the best ever.

John, I remember hearing you talk about when you would retire, and how you wouldn't announce it ahead of tme. You said that once someone decides to retire, they are basically not engaged in their work anymore. I've thought about that many times as I've contemplated retirement. Good luck, and enjoy the "free" time!

Retirement...so well deserved.I've listened to you since KFRC and Gene Nelson running off season marathons.You are the best and I have learned so much about football listening to you.Take care, enjoy your family and your retirement.It's well deserved!

I wish you the best for your retirement..enjoy the family and the time you will have...I hope to see you one day at a High School football game..or maybe at a Bacci ball tournament.. You will always be the epitome of true Coach and Football fan...God Bless you and your family!!

It just won't be the same without you, John. You were and are the best and we'll all miss you. Best wishes for the future and I hope we'll still hear you on KCBS every morning!

John, what are we going to do for the traditional thanksgiving Tur-Duck-en? What will happen to John Robinson now that he will not join you on the bus and then try to get off the bus before he gets to the California Nevada border... who is going to fill me in on Charley the checker?..What about your Madden Bar-b-q......whoa is me!!!!! honest ..I'm not a stalker...just a big fan of your since the Oakland Raider days...You will be missed! God Bless You!!

Thanks John, I grew up with you first as a Raider coach then with you as an announcer as well as an NFL analyst. We all will truly miss your colorful commentaries, honest and detailed reporting, and your descriptive analysis of the game of football! It saddens me to hear of your retirement, but I do understand. I hope that you will continue to do the show on KCBS news talk radio. Thanks for the memories!

It won't seem real with out your commentary every morning and on Sunday. I have listened to your honesty and 'realness' since your days with Gene Nelson on KFRC. Maybe now you will have time to float over to Hawaii and visit Gene!! I have enjoyed the person of John Madden since his Raider days. I have learned more about football and sports in general from John than all of the other conversations combined. John's honesty and clarity is priceless and unique in the broadcasting world. I will miss you, Coach. For you and your family, I wish you better than the very best. For me, selfsihly, I don't want to you go. You will be missed so very much. My best to you, Virginia, your sons and their families.

I have always admired John Madden and he showed me what kind of person he really is when he spoke about wanting to be with his wife, family, and especially his concern about his grandchildren and his being present to them. That is the kind of class theJohn Madden has.

You have the wonderful good fortune to know when you are ready to move on to the next stage of your life. I hope you have a long and wonderful retirement with your family. You have certainly earned it. Thank you for all the great years of broadcasts and even better discussions of all sorts of topics on KCBS every morning. we will all miss you!

I will miss hearing John Madden. I love watching the games he did. There is no one like John and I will miss hearing his voice during the game. I hope he enjoys his retirement, he deserves it.

John’s had a great run and deserves a comfortable retirement. Now he’ll have the time to take those flying lessons he’s always wanted.

I'm a grandma! You're right! They notice and it's a very special time. Best of luck!

John, you said,"This will be the 1st time I'll be out of football since I was 16. That is Trumped by Sam 8, and you 73! Enjoy your retirement.

One hears the word "football", and one sees John Madden, et al. You will be missed.

I'm no football fan... but I love Sports with John Madden on KCBS! Here's wishing him the best of everything... but hoping I'll still hear you on my way to work each morning!

What a ride! Thanks John...

Thank you for helping each day begin with a smile. You have a great outlook and I pray you never lose your humor.

Stan, Steve and John--pls tell us tomorrow whether John continues on KCBS--very unlcear with the way you all signed off John's segment today

Coach - I am very far from being a football fan - unlike my dear husband for whom the sport is the sun in the morning. However, you have given me a respect for the sport and the only time I have ever listened to or watched a broadcast is if you are there. Of all of the sports personalities throughout my almost 70 years, the only one I have wanted to meet and shake hands with is you. Your humor and insight into human nature are totally delightful. I hope you will continue to do the 8:15 AM morning sports show on KCBS every day. Enjoy your retirement and the time you will have with your family. You certainly have your priorities correct. Thanks again.

A big part of the enjoyment in watching a NFL game is to listen to the commentary and analysis from John. I will miss that but am glad that John will still call in to KCBS in the mornings as I this oftens provides a great start of my day. Best wishes John with your retirement!

John, Shirley (Creighton) Kramer here....from Jefferson High ...maybe you remember me and my brother Lowell from the good ole days in Daly City..It has been my extreme pleasure following you and your career all of these years. Started my morning with your radio show,hard to think of you retiring we will all miss you but now is the time to smell the roses and enjoy your family...and maybe a few visits to good ole Daly City. Enjoy...You have brought great entertainment to a great many. thank You...

Congrats on your retirement coach! Your Wife, children & grandchildren will surely enjoy you...and now you get to figure out if you have High def on your TV and you'll have plenty of time to actually master the remote control! I hope that you still makespecial guest appearances..because I will surely miss you! I am also praying that you get that invitation to play at the The AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am...I will be your #1 fan..Good Luck and enjoy your time off...We'll miss you!

It won't be the same, for years and years I have listened to John talk sports, not only on KCBS, but KSFO also. The sports reports were never just about sports, there were many mornings that a lot of us almost ran off the road laughing so hard about the stories John told on himself. He and Al were/ are the only announcers of football that don't make you turn off the sound when you watch the game. The other announcers just babble and drive you crazy with the stupid comments.

But John Madden is America's grandfather. Every morning, I tuned to KCBS at 8:15 in morning to learn about good eats, character development, bocce ball, you name it... or rather John names it. John is a person I wished I lived next door to. His passion for the game of football and all those involved with it, is a shining light for all of us. Love you John. Play with those grandchildren and give'em big hugs!

I'm a recently retired (female) baseball/football adict, and loved John every day. Myi favorite was when the HP stopped his bus in Minnesota, and said they were going to do strip search. thanks John

John is a very special human being. A unique combination of wisdom and humility, you taught millions of people to have the proper perspective on life, sports and humanity. Thanks for the lessons of a life time, The Kelly's of San Mateo

Congratulations coach, over 40 years have passed since I played for you at Allan Hancock Junior College. I can't think of a person who has contributed as much to the NFL as you have. I just wanted to say those were great times at Allan Hancock Junior College and seeing you on television were evem more speical. You deserve every accolade that has been bestowed upon you. Have a great time in retirement and enjoyr your family. Matt Pickett-San Jose, California

You will be greatly missed. Thank you for your work, we know you loved it and we enjoyed it. You delivered a combination of knowledge, honesty, decency, and humility that is unmatched and perhaps unmatchable. God bless you and yours, and stay well for a long time to come!

hey, john, did you clear your retirement with dean taylor?

John, you made football fun for everyone--especially a non-athlete who really had no idea how the game really worked until you explained it in your own inimitable (good John Madden word!) way. We out in football-watcher land will miss you more than youcan know!! It's been a great ride....... Thank goodness we can still hear you on KCBS!! Julie Moore, San Jose

I thought that this day would come but differently. I really figured they would have to take you out of the booth kicking and screaming. I applude you for leaving on your terms. I would like to also thank you for the many years. Enjoy your family.

for those who never heard of dean taylor, he was the fictitious name john madden used when john had an opinion that wasn't popular. john would say that dean taylor thought something and then ask for opinions. only once on kcbs did john tell the truth about dean taylor

John, you made football so enjoyable to watch. Your enthusiasm and knowledge of the game will be greatly missed. We have enjoyed listening to you on the sports segment on KCBS, too. Your stories are priceless. Thanks for everything and wishing you all the best as you retire. Enjoy your family and all their activities. We will miss you. fans in Livermore

John, I've enjoyed you for so long, I can hardly believe that your leaving...I remember as a kid, going to Raider games, watching you be the passionate coach, then broadcaster. You are a rare gift to both. Will dearly miss you on SNF, but still looking forward to M-F at 0815. Thanks again....Greg Berry-Oakland/Fairfield

Coach, congrats on your decision to hang it up. But what about us? Bad news you're retiring, worse news that your replacement is the smarmy, arrogant & insufferable boor, Chris Collinsworth. We're screwed! All the best Coach! Jerry Horn Lahaina Maui HI

John will be sorely missed. Who else can be so candid and still keep his "old school" values and gentlemanly style intact? Being a KCBS news/sports/traffic fan while on the road, John brings a special insight to his sports commentary, whether it's football or baseball it's part of my day I'll truly miss. Enjoy your family, John; they deserve our portion of you for themselves now =o)

Those lucky grandkids! Enjoy. Marian in Rio Vista

Your the one I use for a comparison when listening to any sports broadcast. I tell people that Joe Morgan is to baseball, what John Madden is to football. You've always made it easier and more enjoyable to understand the heart of the game. Thank you so much, you will be incredibly missed.

John, you are absolutely an American Legend; and we really love you for that. Thank you so much. God Bless You and yours. Hai of Hayward

I never got into sports until I listed to John Madden, every morning at 8:15 or 9:15. I felt I really knew him and he made me understand and appreciate sports. I actually like sports now and can appreciate the art and science (and pure enjoyment) of the games. Thank you John, you will be very missed in the morning.

Thanks for all the commutes listening to John and the crew. Many years and many miles! And thanks for having it on the web as I was out of town and didn't hear about the announcement until this evening and was able to hear John on the podcast.

Not only is John honest and straightforward with the sports commentary, he is also great with all other thoughts he has on life...his babysitting episodes with his grandsons, his cold remedies, etc. I always enjoyed a good chuckle with his take on all things. We will miss him so much, because not only is he a great sports commentary, but a great entertainer in my opinion.

I don't watch football but I always have enjoyed listening to you on KCBS. I admire you're down to earth wisdom and your ability to put things into perspective. Enjoy your retirement and know that you will be missed.

My son and I would listen to you everyday whenI drove him to school. He always would ask where you were? We would talk about you at the dinner table. I love to listen to you in the AM and laugh out loud, I'm sure the other drivers on the road thought I was crazy!!!! I am crazy about you. Enjoy your family, you all deserve to make memories with them since you have given us so many memories over the years. You are are a great man! We will miss you in the AM and on TV. ACentral Valley Fan

John, the NFL might survive your decision but please tell your Bay Area family you're still here for us on KCBS! Open a snickerdoodle franchise with Al, become a bocce legend, turn that barbeque into a mega fundraiser so we can all join in the fun, and keep reporting on all your new adventures at 8:15. We love you and can't get along without you.

Coach:My father's family lived at 147 Knowles Avenue in Daly City. My father, aunt and two uncles went to Jefferson and were proud Indians. On the radio today (4/16/2009) you were talking about the Relish Bakery Top of the Hill. My dad worked at the gas station caddywhompus from the Relish Bakery. Dad used to listen to you and was so puffed up with pride when he would say, "Madden's from Daly City, you know" (yes, Daddy, we know). Dad passed in June of 2007 but you are still a joy to hear.Plus my husband of 21 years and his brother are die-hard, bleed Silver and Black Raiders fans. I don't do sports but you are more than a sportscaster to me; you are a little slice of life from my corner of the world. Best of luck on your retirement and Happy Golden Wedding Anniversary!Christina Sola Campbell

I love listening to John. He is a genius with a knack for relating to everyone. I don't care what he talks about--I always enjoy listening!!!!!

You will be truly missed. I cannot imagine my mornings without listening to you. Enjoy your time off and we will hope to hear from you every once in a while.

John, you have a unique ability and style that made NFL football so much more enjoyable to watch. Your combination of wit and knowledge of the game always made it clear to me that I was watching and listening to someone who could at once entertain while being an authority on what he was descrbing to the viewers. You were a true legend in your time and football won't be the same. May your retirement years be fulfilling for you and your family.

Coach, I love your voice and your wit, and admit I'm so addicted to your 8:15 spot on KCBS I need to hear you before I go to work in the morning. Thank you for all you've taught me about sports and sports history and "turduckin" and everything.

But the morning broadcasts will be sorely lacking if John will not be calling in for his 5-10 minutes segments. I know Stan will instantly agree. ;-) Bravo for your years of color commentary, even making blowouts interesting with your observations andinsight. enjoy the extra time with family but please stay with us KCBS listeners for awhile yet.

John - Your retirement from the weekly SNF games is great for your family and well deserved. You spent so much time traveling in the Madden Cruiser and I really enjoyed your descriptions of events during your travels. Maybe you can take your grandkids on some fun trips now. I hope you will find time to keep up with the KCBS morning show. If I miss it, I always listen to the podcast to see what fun you are into. Enjoy your retirement!

I listened to John's first broadcast on KCBS when there were pauses in the dialoge. But, by the time a week went by the bantering had started. I told my wife about how I liked litening to the morning broadcasts. She said,"Oh yea, he was my dance instructor." I actually didn't believe her for awhile and though she had her people mixed up. But she was right as usual as only John could be man enough to step up and teach a class that he knew nothing about and have the students enjoy the class. Jane says that John was/is a "nice guy, but a lousy dancer!" I will miss you and I hope we will continue to get our life lessons such as don't eat honey in front of bees! Stephen Heinrichs

I guess there's a season for everything but I'm sorry to hear John will no longer be in the broadcast booth. His down-to-earth comments and the pure passion he has for the game added tremendously to the spectator experience. I will miss that added dimension.

Best wishes and thanks John - you are the best and only way to listen to the game. But if you leave the radio I'll really miss to fun from the rode, around the Bay Area, Carmel/Monterey. Thanks again - Ken Sullivan

Bam. Through the hole and into the backfield. Thanks, John, for all the memories.

John, you took football broadcasting to a new level. KCBS and its listeners are lucky to have your wit and wisdom every day.

You will be missed John Madden. Some comments, I heard you mention the name of Jim Gheilmetti often. I wonder if he's the same guy I played football with Beresford Grade school in the 1950's. His nickname was crazylegs. He was our half back. And also, Virgina visted my wife's school in San Jose last year after hearing about the bocce ball court that was installed. Did you ever put one in your backyard?

John,Thanks for everything. You taught us all so much. One thing I remember most - your advice about when to get on the team and when to take care of them. "Don't get on the the team after the big loss, thats when you take care of them. AFter the big win, thats when you get on them." I use that advice often.thanks againA Sacramento Listener

I am not a big football fan, but you will never know how many times I stayed with a game because you were explaining something. While I do appreciate the KCBS archives of your programs, you will never know how disappointed I am when you are not there for the morning exchange. Thank you John.

Thank you John for sharing your football knowledge and stories with us. I couldn't have won the office football pool without your help!

Coach Madden. Best wishes and enjoy retirement. I look forward to still hearing you on KCBS. Really enjoy your stories. Hopefully there will be a way to keep the Madden Cruiser rollin'! Maybe Al Hart and you could take the show on the road throughout the Bay Area! Work on that golf game and keep whippin' 'em in Bocce Ball. Oh yeah. You gotta teach the grandkids how to say 'BAMM!' - Had-Dawg - Oakley, CA

Your life has been and is an example of doing the right thing the right way.

Best wishes on your Retirement. Thanks for all you've done with bringing football, with flare, into our homes. You truly showed how much you loved the game. Like many of your fans I grew up with you, and the Raiders, showing me how football is played, and then your broadcasting explained how football is played. We can't forget the lessons on how to tailgate, especially at Thanksgiving time. It is an end to a great era, with football changing & your departure, it won't be the same. Thanks for the memories & bringing more women into the game of football. Looking forward to more of your lessons of life on KCBS Radio. Have a wonderful & healthy life with your family & Happy 50th Anniversary. From one of your many fans - Maryime

I was at home because of spring break and don't know why I turned on the radio just then, but I'm glad I did. I heard the lead-in to the "Big Announcement" and knew the time had come. The only NFL games I really wanted to watch were yours, John, which meant I followed you from Monday nights to Sunday's games. My husband, who is a Tongan rugby player, enjoyed listening to you as a way to learn English along with watching his favorite game. For these 25 years, I wake up to KCBS in the morning and listen on the way to work. I loved Al Hart/John Madden Wednesdays. * Ask Al and John if they know the Ludefisk (lutefisk) song played on WCCO in Mpls. You all should try to get a copy of it and have Al call in along with John. It's a hoot! Please let us know in advance if you get it! I'm grateful John's call-in's will continue, and I will be try as hard as I can to win tickets to to the Madden BBQ! The Bay Area is so lucky to have had the privilege of knowing you; I was gratified to hear all the tributes on both news and sports channels last night. Indeed, we're the lucky ones. Lucy and Simote Folau, Vallejo

I have never actually met you, but feel as if I know you (I’m sure I am one in a long line who feels the same way) I always refer to you as my friend. I really appreciate the fact that you made us all feel as if you were our next door neighbor telling us about all of your adventures and what you were up to @ 8:15 every morning and making us all laugh because you say what most of us think and have brilliant way of putting things in to perspective. And of course I love the OAKLAND RAIDERS and you are a huge part of my childhood during those glory years. Thank you So much My Friend… and good luck in all that you do!!! Sincerely Daniel Livermore CA

John, we may not be your greatest or most famous fans but we are surly some of your earliest. My wife and I entered Cal Poly in the fall of 1956. We were on the GI Bill and the extent of our entertainment was watching the Cal Poly football games. By the fall of 1958 we had two young babies sitting in the stands with us watching John, Bob Beathard, Pat Lovell and the rest of the team almost win them all; darn that that one loss to Fresno State. Several of us traveled to San Jose to see the team beat the “fastest man alive”. What a great year that was. I graduated from Cal Poly in March of 1959 and moved to Livermore and worked at the Lab until 1995. So we have always been close to you John in miles. There is no way to describe our respect for you as a football player, coach and just a great human being. We listen to you every morning on KCBS to get our day started off right. A side note: in 1952 I attended the University of Dayton for one year before joining the Navy. One of the members of the UD football team was Chuck Noll. Small world isn’t it. Enjoy those grandchildren, we have seven and never get to see them enough.

Thank you Mr. Madden for all the memories you have given. You've showed many generations your love of football & giving us all the geat lessons on how the game is played. You've also brought many women into the living rooms, and you gave great lessons on tailgating especially at Thanksgiving time. Glad we're still going to be able to hear more of your life lessons on KCBS Radio. Best wishes on your retirement, & may you have health and happiness with your family. Happy 50th on your Anniverary. From one of your many fans - Maryime

Mr. Madden, I can't say it any better than all of these other great comments. I always relished the "Natural" way you talk about everything, not just football but life and family. You have been and continue to be an outstanding role maodel as a Father, a Son, husband, grandfather and friend. You will always have our admiration and respect. If I were to watch one football game on the weekend it would be the game you and Al or Pat were doing. You just bring such a fresh and clear and fun understanding to the game. I never played Boche Ball until I heard how much fun you had playing. Enjoy your retirement it is so well earned. My parents are celebrating their 50th anniversary in September so congratualtions to you and Virginia. Thanks for a wonderful run! "BOOM!

Who is going to explain the plays so easily? Who is going to tell us it was a bad to good play? You have made football enjoyable to a lot of people who could see what was going on, but had no idea why. Enjoy your retirement and your grandchildren, butglad your are still on KCBS. You will be missed. All the best. Leslie/Menlo Park

Not bad for a kid from "Top of the Hill" Daly City. TG you are staying with KCBS!!!Charlie/Tiburon

Listened to you every morning on the way to work starting with Gene Nelson. Often cited you in managment meetings with you knowledge of humnan behavior and psychology. Especialy your example of hiring a pschologist to deal with team aggression and deciding you didn't want to change the players. Your observations are very valuable for all human situations not just football. I remember the time with Gene when you asked to talk to the A's pitcher in Arizona, Bruce---, your repartee with Steve Young re $1000 bet "geebies"? and his no comb style. The catch from QB Joe Montana in the warm up. Enjoy your retirement. You earned it and we will all miss you.

Thanks for making watching football fun. No matter what game you were announcing I would watch. Glad to hear we'll still be able to enjoy you on the radio. Enjoy your retirement! Pleasant Hill

It was great to hear that your mom told you not to give up your show on KCBS!.. Not only does she look forward to hearing your voice in the morning ...but so do I! Maybe now you'll get a chance to come watch the Sacred Heart Cathedral Fighting Irish football team play at Kezar Stadium on a Friday Night...we would be honored to have you there! Good Luck with your retirement Coach! Your fan since the age of 9...A football Mom!

I have been a John Madden fan since he coached the Raiders. I was never a Raiders fan but I loved John Madden. May Your retirement be as rewarding to you as your sports years have been rewarding to the public. We will miss you

The comment at the end of the Top Ten List for John Madden says it all--you are from here. We in the Bay Area are so privileged that you love this place and that you are going to continue on KCBS . My mornings would not be the same if you retired from KCBS, too. But, as a recent retiree myself, I know how difficult a decision this was. Congratulations for going out on top. You will love it!

I really appreciate the two interviews with John Madden by Stan, Steve and Susan! The reason I've become a regular morning listener is the great "chats" with John ... sure mainly sports, but frankly mostly about life. John you touch at lot of people ... have great fun with those grandkids... I'll be listening for the adventures!

Sunday night football won't be the same without you but thank god your staying with KCBS -- morning drives to work wouldn't be nearly as "enjoyable" without you!

John Enjoy your retirement and I hope you can do home games for the 49ers and the Raiders that way you do not have to travel. "Go Chokers" Love the Mint Cafe I had a burger there with my Grandfather in 1958 for my 11th birthday. I have outdoor and indoor pictures of the famious Mint Cafe. Love to get them to you. Jerry Sherk of the '70 Browns is also an alumni of Grays Harbor Bill A Gilroy

Mr. Madden -- I was born in 1981, so I don't know what football will be like without you. To many in my generation, you embody the best of the game. Thanks for teaching us to love it!

When I moved to the Bay Area from Florida many years ago, my husband introduced me to your radio show, as he knew I was a big fan of you and football. I’ve been hooked ever since. We have followed you from KFRC to KCBS over the years, and you make our daily grind down Hwy 80 very entertaining. We’re so glad to hear you’ll still be doing your morning radio show!!! We know you’ll enjoy spending more time with your family who are lucky to have you as a husband, dad, grandpa, and uncle – not to mention the best football sportscaster of all time. Thought you might get a kick out of knowing that my husband’s favorite shirt is an old (17 years) “All Madden Team” sweatshirt which he won’t part with. Congratulations on your retirement and your wonderful career! Vicki & Mike in Vallejo

John, Remember me? Clarence Lair. I was one of your coaches at Jefferson High School in Daly City over 50 years ago. I would like to congratulate you on your retirement. I have followed your career for many years and enjoyed your football commentary on T.V. We have a son who lives in Montana and so we decided to move here in 1981. I am 93 years old and have enjoyed the mountains and hiking here. If your retirement brings you fishing in Montana, please stop by to say hello. Clarence Lair jlair@q.com

I listened to you as often as I could in my commute from Carmel to Morgan Hill after you shook hands with me a Baker's Square in the Crossroads. You were my window to pro sports and I enjoyed the heck out of it. Now, I have to just listen to Steve. Bestwishes in your second life.

Since moving here from Hawaii in 1989, I feel like many of the gals who really aren't die-hard football fans, but can honestly admit that we are ALL John Madden Fans!! I have even learned a thing or two over the years about football...so, "mahalo" for that! Your approach to the game and your life is truly inspiring and you deserve to enjoy the time with your family now! I look forward to hearing you every morning on my way to work, & am disappointed when we can't hear you in person! But, I am so relieved to hear that you are staying with KCBS at the 8:15 slot, as I do not leave the car until after your show with the KCBS crew! Always enjoyed hearing about the famous KCBS BBQ, wishing we could be there too...or somehow wishing to share in Susan's piece of cake that she always took home...ha-ha! Would you PLEASE post Virginia's Chocolate Cake recipe, so that the rest of us can feel like we are part of the event too???So...the TIME has come, God bless you, John Madden and your family, especially your Mom and tell Sam that his Grandpa still is, & will always remain "famous" to us!!Aloha!

I have loved your style from the days of the Snake and have been a fan ever since. So glad you are staying on KCBS...you are a great way to start a day. Good luck with your new role as full time grandpa!

Now that John Madden is retired, there is no more there there !

I never cared for football, but I'm a Madden fan. Hope to see you around Ptown.

I respect John Madden for the great guy that he is. He's smart. He's honest. And he's "just folks" despite the fact that he has to be very well-heeled by this time. He sounds like the kind of guy that I would be honored to have as a close friend or a next door neighbor. I dearly love the stories about the dogs and the bus and the barbeques and the Bocci ball competitions and the kids "sitting on their breakfast, while eating their lunch." And I'm delighted to know that John will be continuing on KCBS, despite his retirement from TV. We love you, Big Guy!!

John is Everyman to all of us with an exceptional talent at humor and football. My favorite KCBS broadcast was when he was in a hotel on the road and made spaghetti on the stove. He told of how many ingredients he used and of sauce spilling all over the stovetop. Then he left extra money for a tip to clean it up. My favorite football broadcaster moment was when he noticed a man holding a cable behind the head coach of one of the teams. (before wirelss headsets) This man had to follow the head coach around and take up extra cable or let out extra cable as the coach marched up and down the field. To quote Bob Hope, "Thanks for the memories." Mary Solon, Lafayette.

I listen John's talk every morning (almost, unless I got up really late) on my way to work. I enjoyed very much. I could not stop laughing when he gets witty and gives interesting answers. One of my favorites is the comments John made about "loyalty". I don't remember the exact words, but it is something like that there is always a question about the loyalty when number gets high (100m or more) or more money is on the table. how true. Another quick comment that I did not bother to bring to you wemt back a few years. It is about 5 or 6 years ago on the morning talk. Something came up in the conversation about injury and ice. Susan (I believ it is Susan) said something about using the frozen pea bag for nursing injury. You guys shut her up about that one and said never heard about it (included John). The truth is that I got the recommendation from my Dr. some times ago and I use the frozen pea bag quite often. It is more convenient, less irratiating (less cold). Yet cold enough for the injure. More importantly, I don't have a solid chuck to break up every time I reuse it. It is so easy to manage and I think you guys should appoligize to Susan for that one. :) jack

Nearly everything I know about sports I learned from listening to John on KCBS! Everything intelligent and funny I know about sports I learned from John. So glad you will continue to brighten my day on the radio. Enjoy the family time, especially the fast-growing grandchildren.

john your examples of players and their habits leading to success and their stories of perseverance, alongwith your jokes make this show like a life experience sharing thing with us. Thank you you the favorite grandpa our nation has. plus ure video game rocks.... rock on john see you when you are a hundred.......

John, we go way back to radio KSMA in Santa Maria when we shared the microphone while you were head football coach at Hancock College. Haven't seen you since the 1980s when I was managing editor of the Santa Barbara News-Press. Congratulations.

Dick Ebersol put it best when he said you are "absolutely the best sportscaster who ever lived". With your knowledge of the game from your head coaching days, you brought SO MUCH to your broadcasts. I loved your diagragms on TV in your early days and your charismatic aninmation ALWAYS. EVEYONE will miss you and I mean EVERYONE. I'm so happy that you are staying with KCBS. I NEVER miss your morning broadcast when I drive to work and I know thousands and thousands of commuters share my passion for your talk show. I am so happy that you get to spend more time with your wonderful family. Wishing you the BEST to someone who is the BEST. You are a GREAT person. Bob B. - Belmont, CA

Thanks a lot John! We'll surely miss you even if we get second John in future.