Jarrad Waite retires: AFL veteran to hang up boots at end of 2018 season

Angus Reid

Jarrad Waite retires: AFL veteran to hang up boots at end of 2018 season image

AFL veteran Jarrad Waite has decided to hang up his boots at the end of the 2018 season.


 

The North Melbourne forward will play his last game of AFL footy against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Waite will retire having played 244 games of senior footy after being taken with the 46th pick in the 2001 national draft by Carlton.

The 35-year-old played 184 games with the Blues after making his debut in 2003, kicking 252 goals with the club before moving on at the end of the 2014 season.

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During his free agency, Waite decided to sign with the Kangaroos and made his North Melbourne debut in 2015 where he played a career-best number of games in one season (23) and kicked his best season-haul of goals (42).

Jarrad will play his 60th game for the Kangaroos when he runs out against the Saints on Sunday and has kicked 122 goals for the club.

Waite made the announcement to his teammates on Tuesday afternoon and had this to say to reporters.

"I would like to officially announce my retirement from the game, it was a really difficult to make. After speaking to Brad Scott about the future, I've made the decision to give it away," Waite said.

"Scotty has been one of the most inspirational coaches I've ever had. I've been able to play my best footy under him, including this season.

"The decision is made harder by playing good football. I've been thinking about this decision the past three years. Going out on top will be the best thing for me, and I can walk away knowing that I've given it my all.

"I wasn't willing to wait and see if there was another contract on the table. I can leave the game 100% satisfied and know I gave it my all."

The coach was emotional in his response.





 

 

Angus Reid

Angus Reid Photo