Zach Merrett finally got his wish and joined Hawthorn, leaving Essendon on the first day of the 2026 AFL trade period.
Merrett was traded to the Hawks for Picks 15, 25 and a 2028 second-round selection, and will wear the brown and gold next year.
But in his final act in Bombers colours, the seven-time Crichton Medallist delivered a heartfelt message to fans and supporters.
"Thank you. Across 13 years and 274 games, your support through the ups and downs has meant the world to me," Merrett said.
"I always tried to make you proud. I tried to play with an effort no one could match, and to get up for every game I possibly could. I hope I did that for you.
"It feels very strange to be leaving, and it's a time for reflection.
"I still remember the night my name was called out at pick 26 in the 2013 draft. My brother rang me from the couch at home and couldn't believe my luck. Celebrating that night with family and friends back home in Cobden, with all four of my grandparents still alive, is something I'll never forget.
"Four days later I walked into the Hangar for the first time. Freshly painted white walls, the main oval just mown. I was in awe of Dyson Heppell and Jobe Watson, and my first job on my first day was stretching Jobe's hamstring.
"My debut against North Melbourne in 2014 is still one of my favourite memories. Running out in the green sub vest Colin Hooper handed me, in front of 30 or 40 of my closest family and friends and the Bomber Army, and getting the win, was something special. So was being part of Dustin Fletcher's record-breaking game.
"Playing 50 games alongside my brother Jackson at Essendon is something we still talk about. We grew up in the backyard in Cobden with plenty of kicks, handballs, tears and tantrums. To end up playing together on the MCG is something our whole family will always be grateful for.
"There have been incredible moments and some hard ones. But what I'll take with me most are the relationships: teammates, coaches, staff, volunteers and fans, on and off the field. My family and I are eternally grateful for everything this club has given us.
"Essendon will always hold a special place in my heart. It's where I grew up, as a footballer and as a person. Captaining this club was the greatest honour of my career, and I'll never take for granted that I got to lead Essendon.
"The club is in great hands with Andy McGrath and the leadership group. I know how much they care about Essendon, and the young players couldn't have better people to learn from.
"The future is bright. There is so much talent on this young list, and I can't wait to watch those players grow into great Essendon people and great Essendon players.
"In the years to come, I'll be back with a scarf around my neck, cheering on the next generation of Essendon stars."
