Nick Riewoldt was composed after the final siren of Sunday’s win over North Melbourne until he looked down at his boots and
The 34-year-old made his debut at Docklands in Round 15, 2001, back when it the ground was known as Colonial Stadium.
It has since changed names to Telstra Dome and more recently to Etihad Stadium, but Riewoldt has remained a constant threat at a ground where he has played more games (184) at and kicked more goals (452) at than any other player.
“I was feeling pretty composed and got to the far side of the ground, then looked down at my footy boots and just the thought that I’d never
“It was almost like a bit of blood in the water, I think once they sensed I got a little bit emotional, they just roared to another level – it tipped me right over the edge.
“It was a great experience, especially for my family, they ride it as much anyone with you, so I know they really enjoyed it.
“I almost feel like I shouldn’t be playing this week such was the send-off I received last weekend. It was a great opportunity to say thank you for the way that the St Kilda family has embraced me for 17 years.”
The six-time Trevor Barker Award winner admits it was strange to look into a sea of people and see grown men and women crying over him.
But for someone who has worn his heart on his sleeve for the duration of his 335-game career, Riewoldt said passion is what makes this game so great.
“It’s strange, it really is,” Riewoldt said. “But I guess when you’ve been a part of a team and a club like I have been for 17 years and we have had so many highs and some heartbreaking ‘almosts’ that you’ve already been exposed to a lot of that.
“So you know that the passion is there just waiting to erupt at various stages depending on the circumstances. I guess that’s what makes footy so great.
“I’m just fortunate to have been a part of it for so long and to have experienced so much in those 17 years.”
