Sharks star calls time
SOUTHPORT’S season from hell has gone from bad to worse following the shock decision by former AFL player Jack Anthony to pull the pin on his playing career.
Anthony, one of the few consistently good players in a poor-performing side this NEAFL season, told the Sharks on Tuesday night he is retiring.
The 29-year-old made a successful return to the field this year after a sickening neck injury mid-2016.
Anthony’s form for the Sharks since returning had been outstanding as both a key defender and forward and it was only a fortnight ago that he represented a NEAFL side in a representative match against Tasmania.
But the key position player said a combination of concerns over his neck and a new career in real estate led to his decision to quit.
“The decision was not easy but I’m confident with it,” Anthony said after telling his teammates on Tuesday night at training.
“There may be a perception that I’m deserting the club at a bad time but that is not true. I feel I have been a loyal servant to them.
“It’s just that I’ve had two serious neck injuries and now I have to think about my health and my future.
“I’ve gone into a job in real estate and I love it – it needs all my attention.”
Losing one of their few experienced players at a time the club is experiencing its worst season in history – which includes three recordbreaking losses – will be a massive blow for the Sharks.
Born in Box Hill in Melbourne, Anthony went on to play 51 AFL games (43 with Collingwood, eight with Fremantle) from 2008 to 2012.
It was in his early days with Collingwood that he sustained his first serious neck injury in the pre-season of 2007.
Compounding the dire situation at the Sharks are the departure of ruckman Jed Turner overseas and a knee injury to rising youngster Cody Filewood.
In a brief media statement Sharks football manager Jarrod Field said that Anthony played a total of 31 games for the Sharks in the NEAFL.
“While the club is disappointed by the announcement, we understand that Jack is approaching the end of his football career and needs to consider all options for his future,” he said.
“We wish him all the best.”