Sapp Honored At Retirement Party

TAMPA — Friends and former teammates from the Bucs gathered at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino on Saturday night to honor Warren Sapp.

The 35-year-old defensive tackle retired in January after nine years in Tampa and four seasons with the Raiders.

Sapp arrived fashionably late, strolling into his retirement party two hours into the festivities. While a DJ kept the music going, guests dined on sushi and an assortment of appetizers.

"Warren's the straw that stirred our drink," said Bucs coach Jon Gruden, who attended the party with his wife, Cindy.

Fans also were on hand to celebrate Sapp's storied career. A video montage displayed career highlights for the 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

"He was the most fierce competitor I ever played with," former Bucs linebacker Shelton Quarles said.

Part of the proceeds went to the Children's Cancer Center in Tampa.

Other notables in the crowd included Bucs running back Warrick Dunn, Bucs defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin and Raiders coach Lane Kiffin.

(tbo.com)