After 10 years at the anchor desk, Mark Hayes said an emotional goodbye to Atlanta’s WAGA today (video above).

In a statement announcing his departure, Hayes said “an incredible amount of soul searching” led to the decision “to venture out and continue to pursue my dreams in the field of broadcast journalism.”

“I’m excited about the future,” he said on “Good Day Atlanta.” “I don’t know what it holds, but I’m excited about it. But at the same time I’m leaving with a heavy heart.”