AJ, first of all, congrats on the new position. Hope you get to take some time and enjoy a nice, long vacation before you start.
It's too bad to see you retire since you were always a worthy opponent.
I do want to second what you said about the negativity. Although I've pseudo retired (I don't know if I could ever face hanging up my Gens pad for good), the attitude/respect level lately has had a lot to do with why I'm still not more involved in these leagues anymore. If I ever sit down and play b/c I feel an obligation to play rather than a desire to play, I should take a break. It sounds like you are somewhat in that place.
Even though this is an official retirement post from you, I think you got some leagues left in you. Maybe not over the next couple months or maybe even next couple years but I hope to see you back in the mix at some point.
Best of luck with the new position!