After 12 seasons at the highest level, Dougal Howard has told his teammates that tomorrow night’s game will be his last in the red, white and black.
Howard informed the playing group of his decision yesterday, bringing to a close an AFL career spanning more than a decade across Port Adelaide and St Kilda.
Saints fans will get the opportunity to thank Dougal tomorrow night, with the defender to run out for his 100th and final club game at Marvel Stadium against the Gold Coast.
“I was a bit emotional, to be honest, when I spoke to the boys,” Howard said.
“I’ve absolutely loved my time at St Kilda. I came to Melbourne and the club as a 23-year-old, so it’s been such a big part of my life and my family’s life.
“To have played most of my career here and seen the growth of the club over that time has been really special.
“This year has been a frustrating one. I’ve struggled a bit to get my body right and haven’t been able to get out there as consistently as I would’ve liked, but I know now is the right time to finish up my career at the Saints.”
“I can’t thank all the coaches, teammates and staff I’ve worked alongside over the journey enough. These people not only allowed me to live the dream of playing professional football, but more importantly, many have become lifelong friends which I’ll always be grateful for.”
Drafted by Port Adelaide with pick No. 56 in the 2014 National Draft, Howard spent five seasons with the Power before making the move to St Kilda ahead of the 2020 season.
The key defender made an immediate impact in his first year as a Saint, finishing third in the club’s best and fairest as St Kilda returned to finals for the first time in nine years.
Howard went on to establish himself as an integral member of the Saints’ backline, with his competitiveness and leadership making an impact both on and off the field.
“Dougal has been a massive part of our football club, and he’ll be missed around Moorabbin,” GM of Football Lenny Hayes said.
“Through all the ups and downs, Dougal has always competed and put the team first.
“As his career has progressed, we’ve also seen him become an important leader and mentor for the younger players coming through.
“We thank Dougal, Georgia and Charlie for everything they’ve given to the club and the sacrifices they’ve made along the way and wish them all the very best for their next chapter.”
