ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 09: Eric Mackenzie of the Eagles reacts after the final siren during the AFL First Elimination Final match between Port Adelaide Power and West Coast Eagles at Adelaide Oval on September 9, 2017 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Kalisz/Getty Images)
West Coast defender Eric Mackenzie has announced his retirement, after 147 games for the Eagles.
The 2014 John Worsfold Medallist had to retire prematurely, after injuries to both his big toes forced him to be sidelined from football for the entire 2018 season at all levels of the game.
“I have been battling chronic pain in both big toes for the last two years,” Mackenzie told westcoasteagles.com.au.
“We have tried everything, but it just didn’t get any better.
“This decision won’t come as a big shock because I haven’t played a game this year, but it was the right time to let the boys know.
“I’m obviously going to miss it. I loved playing with these guys, running out onto Subiaco Oval in front of the West Coast Eagles faithful was something really special.
“This playing group is special and it has been great coming to work with them every day. I won’t be able to run out with them anymore, but over the next few weeks I’ll do anything I can to help them.
“I have been at this club for 12 years and would like to thank everyone who has helped my so much over my career, from coaches, teammates and support staff to all the fans who so passionately support the Eagles.”
Mackenzie made his debut in Round 15, 2007, and played his last game in last season's semi-final loss to the Giants.