Saint Nick is a true legend of the game
AFL:
The word “legend’’ gets bandied about far too often. But when it comes to Nick Riewoldt he truly fits the bill as a legend of not only St Kilda, but the game.
Drafted from the Gold Coast with the No.1 pick in 2000, the now 34-year-old has played 333 senior games since his debut as one of the game’s great key forwards.
Riewoldt holds the club record for the most games as captain with 220 and also the most best and fairest awards with six. He gave up the captaincy last year, handing over to Jarryn Geary.
A five-time All-Australian, he will retire at season’s end.
“I couldn’t be more convinced that the time is right for me to retire and step aside,” Riewoldt said.
“I’m really proud that I’m doing so with a litre or two left in the tank rather than pulled up on the side of the road shouting for help.
“When it’s all melted down what we are left with is reality. I’ve been in a hugely privileged position playing a sport I love for a club that I have loved for 17 years.
“Reaching this decision hasn’t been a ‘fall off the cliff’ type epiphany, rather a gradual acceptance and acknowledgement that it’s time to attack the next phase of my life. I could not be more convinced that the time is right to retire.
“St Kilda Football Club has been my home for half of my life, I’ve given my absolute all throughout that period, and I would like to thank them for affording me the opportunity to represent them.
“It has been an incredible honour and you have consistently brought out the absolute best in me.”
St Kilda coach Alan Richardson said Riewoldt had set the standard for leadership and professionalism. “I haven’t seen a better leader in my time in football,” he said MORE ONLINE Danger 7 Brownlow hopes in jeopardy