Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank St Kilda Football Club for all that they have done for me since I arrived in 2003.

I would like to mention former Recruiting Manager John Beveridge, who plucked me from nowhere, to whom a owe a great deal. I’m not sure what he saw in me but I’m glad he picked me for the Saints.

There are too many people at the club to thank individually, but I wanted to acknowledge my current and past teammates, coaches, medical and conditioning staff and everyone who has shared the journey with me. I would also like to thank the Board, staff, volunteers and support staff who work so tirelessly for the club they love.

You have all been an important part of my time at the Saints, and I am incredibly grateful for your support, guidance and friendship.

I would also like to say a huge thank you to my mum Su and dad Terry in Barmera, along with my brother Ben in Adelaide, for their ongoing love and support. The amount of hours and sacrifice my family has made to help me achieve my dream of playing AFL football has been amazing, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. I couldn’t have done it without them.

It has truly been a privilege to play in the red, white and black for the past 13 years, and I have loved every moment.

I never would have imagined that I would play over 200 games of AFL footy, and I am extremely proud to call myself a life member at the Saints. I hope the club will be better off in some small way because of my contribution, as I know the huge impact St Kilda has had on me as both a footballer and a person.

To the members and supporters, thank you for sticking with us through thick and thin. I had so much fun playing in front of you every weekend, and meeting you at training, clinics, school and community visits. Your passion and loyalty to the club makes it a really special experience to play for St Kilda Football Club.

It has been a hard decision to hang up my boots when I know the team is on the right track to achieving success. Over the past couple of years it has been enjoyable to play a new role in mentoring some of our younger defenders and I look forward to watching them become great players for the club.

I will always be grateful to St Kilda Football Club for embracing me and I will leave with many great memories and friendships.