Fremantle cult-figure Michael Walters has called time on his career after 239 games after another knee setback.
Walters hasn't been sighted in 2025 due to the persistent injury, but somewhat poetically, was last spotted captaining the Indigenous All Stars in the exhibition clash earlier this year.
The 34-year-old proved to be a diamond in the rough, taken with Pick 53 in the 2008 National Draft from Swan Districts.
Walters played across 16 seasons for the Dockers, kicking 365 goals and claiming the club's goal-kicking medal five times.
He was also an All-Australian in 2019, and became a Fremantle life member the same year.
"I have been working my backside off to try and get back to play some form of footy, and while mentally I am still committed, unfortunately my body wouldn't allow me to continue playing," Walters said.
"I never left a stone unturned, I tried to return and play again at the top level, and it just didn't work out."
The man known as 'Sonny' played a pivotal role in the club's push for a maiden flag, playing in the 2013 decider, as well as a significant part in the near-faultless 2015 campaign, slotting over 40 majors in each season.
"Sonny has inspired a generation over his career, not just as a football, but a leader, a mentor and a cultural custodian," EGM of Football Joe Brierty said.
"He had the ability to lift those around him, from young teammates to kids in the community. It was something powerful to see firsthand.
"He's played with x-factor, courage, and heart, but he would also lead with deep cultural pride and responsibility, never forgetting where he's come from and who he represents."
But despite his on-field brilliance and impact, Walters' legacy is only heightened by his ability to reach those well beyond the four walls of the Fremantle Football Club.
"Sonny's journey wasn't all smooth sailing, and he had to work hard to achieve the heights he did over his career," Brierty said.
"As a family man and teammate, he was admired by so many. He is a great example for young Indigenous kids across the country to never give up on their dreams.
"He's shown that with hard work, belief and pride in culture, you can overcome anything and thrive."
Walters quickly understood that his purpose, albeit to help the Dockers win games of football, was much bigger than what he could do with the Sherrin in hand.
"After being drafted, I saw how people from the community looked up to me, and I wanted to be a role model for them to show that if I can make it, they can make it.
"Later on in my career, I found a purpose, and that purpose was to play for the next generation and give them some sort of inspiration.
"I wanted to be an example for kids in my area to let them know that it doesn't matter where you come from or what size you are, if you work hard, you can make it, and I feel I have done that to the best of my ability."
