Collingwood veteran Ben Reid has today announced his retirement from the game.

The 2010 premiership defender played 152 games for the club after making his debut in the 2007 season.

The 31-year old informed his teammates of his decision before their trip to Perth.

“This year was going to be my last and I had a minor setback on Thursday so rather than take a risk and go to Perth I thought it was better to let a younger player go, someone with their future ahead of them,” Reid told the club website.

“In a sense, I grew up at Collingwood and I’m just so thankful for all that I experienced, all that I learnt and the many great people I met.

“It was just a wonderful time in my life that I wish could go on forever but, of course, it never can and my time has come. The next phase of my life, with my wife Erin, has arrived and we’re looking forward to that.

“Thanks to the Collingwood Army for their fanaticism and voice. Thanks to the many team-mates, coaches, friends and family who travelled with me over the years. Whatever I was able to do it was with your help.”

Reid hangs up the boots with a 2011 All-Australian jumper to his name, with injuries cruelling much of his career since.

Collingwood GM of Football Geoff Walsh thanked Reid for his contributions to the club.

“ ‘Reidy’ has been one of the most popular players in the Collingwood change rooms for almost 15 years which, I hope, is something he treasures as much as his fine career and all that he achieved,” Walsh said.

“We will miss him. He is a good one.”