To the members and fans of Hawthorn Football Club,

Thank you for your support across what has been an incredible 10 years.

Looking back on my career, it has been a whirlwind. An adventure in my life that I am eternally grateful for.

As a young kid growing up in South Australia, I always dreamt of playing AFL. Although my journey to AFL football didn’t follow the path most often taken, the early years I spent working full time in construction while playing in the SANFL taught me the meaning of hard work and perseverance. 

While many doubted me, Hawthorn gave me a chance. Having the club call to say I had been drafted stands as one of the most memorable days of life. I was overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude, and I never would have expected the 196 games which would later follow.

Footy has given me everything I could have imagined and more. Nothing beats the feeling of stepping out onto the field, wearing our beloved brown-and-gold and representing a club with so much history to its name. Every season, every round, and every game has been an honour. Between the on-field action and roaring support from the crowd, there is a lot I will miss about the game. However, even the greatest chapters in life must come to an end and I now shift my focus to spending more time with my loved ones and family.

As I say goodbye to Hawthorn, I leave with treasured memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. To have been a part of the club’s three-peat is an accomplishment that I am very grateful to have experienced, and one that I will always cherish.

To all my teammates across the journey, thank you for your support and friendship over the years. To finish my career as a one-club player is testament to the brilliant culture embedded within the walls of Hawthorn. Whether we’ve been riding the bumps or celebrating the highs, I can proudly say I have enjoyed every moment we have shared together.

To Clarko, the coaches and the support staff, thank you for every opportunity you have given me and for your unwavering belief. I would have never achieved the number of games, goals, and seasons that I have without your continuous dedication and care across the last decade.

A big thank you goes to my family who have been with me through every step of the journey. To my parents, who spent countless hours taking me to footy training and working to support my dreams, thank you. For every sacrifice you made, my appreciation goes far and beyond.

To my wife Carmel, thank you being the most loyal and loving support. I am so blessed to have had you by my side throughout this journey. You are the best mother to our daughter Giselle, and I look forward to spending even more time with the two of you in retirement.

Lastly, I would like to thank every single member and supporter that make up the Hawthorn family. You have shown me endless passion and support throughout my career, and I value all your kind words. Hearing your cheers from the stands is something I’m going to really miss.

It’s been a great privilege to play for this club and I can’t wait to don the brown-and-gold for one last time this Sunday.

Go Hawks,

Poppy

View: Poppy's career in pictures