Shaun Higgins has announced his retirement after 17 seasons and 260 games across the Western Bulldogs, North Melbourne and Geelong.
The veteran played just five matches for the Cats this season, adding to his tally of 18 in 2021 after joining the club from the Kangaroos at the conclusion of the 2020 season.
Higgins kicked 229 goals across his career, winning best and fairest awards at North in both 2017 and 2018.
The 34-year-old announced his decision to hang up the boots to teammates on Tuesday.
โI feel privileged to have been able to play at this level for 17 seasons at three great clubs. I feel enormously lucky to have lived out a childhood dream of playing footy and Iโm thankful for all the friendships, memories and support through the years,โ Higgins said.
โI am grateful for the opportunity to have represented Geelong, itโs a special Club and while having only been here for two seasons, the place and people have had a lasting impact on me.
Shaun Higgins has announced his retirement after 260 AFL games.
Thank you for everything Higgo! ๐
Higgins Calls It a Day ๐: https://t.co/hPP4MPZSUJ pic.twitter.com/RDackukyZ8
— Geelong Cats (@GeelongCats) September 20, 2022
โThere have been so many people who have helped me along the journey, Iโd like to thank my wife Heidi and children Rosie, Harry and Emme, my Mum, Dad and my extended family. Thank you also to Bruce, Mary, Richard and Kev for the support and role they have played.
โThank you also to the teammates Iโve been able to share the locker room and field with and my coaches for shaping me as a player.
โWhile I have experienced some challenges with injury this season, Iโm comfortable knowing Iโve done everything I can to make a return to the senior team, and while it hasnโt worked out, Iโm focused on playing my part in helping the team best prepare for Saturdayโs Grand Final and seeing my teammates run out onto the MCG.โ
