Jack Ziebell declared he had “given everything” for North Melbourne after the previous membership captain confirmed he’d retire on the finish of his seventeenth season within the AFL.
The 32-year-old made the emotional announcement to his teammates earlier than coaching on Friday morning.
Having been taking part in because the sub in latest weeks for the Kangaroos, Ziebell, who has performed 276 video games, mentioned he’d stroll away from the sport realizing he’d given his all proper up till his final match.
“On one hand it’s always a hard decision to give up the thing you love the most, but on the other I think my body will thank me for it,” Ziebell mentioned.
“From the time I walked into the place I’ve felt right at home and I’ve made some amazing lifelong friendships and connections. This is a special place and I’ll always cherish being part of the club.
“I’ve given everything I can for this footy club, but I think the time is right for me to pass the baton to others to take us forward.
“I truly believe we have the building blocks to eventually go far as a club. I think back to those finals wins in 2014 and ’15 and how amazing the feeling around the club was and I know those times aren’t too far away.
“To our fans – you have been amazingly supportive of me over my entire journey. I can’t thank you enough and I look forward to seeing the joy on your faces when we do turn things around.
“I have so many more people to thank but I’ll get myself through to the end of the season and express my appreciation then.”
Ziebell was drafted to the membership as a 17-year-old within the 2008 AFL draft and made his debut in spherical 1, 2009.
He was elevated to the workforce’s management group three years later at simply 21 years outdated. He assumed the captaincy of the membership forward of the 2017 season and led the workforce out in 111 matches.
North Melbourne common supervisor of soccer Todd Viney mentioned Ziebell’s presence could be missed.
“I can remember watching Jack from afar and thinking that he’s my kind of footballer,” Viney mentioned.
“To watch him up close and see the leadership, ability to play through adversity and the team-first attitude has been a real privilege.
“I’ve only been here a short time in Jack’s 15-year journey, but he’s been pillar of strength in what’s been a tough period and he’s been a great support to everyone at the club.
“It’s typical of Jack that he wanted to do what’s best for North Melbourne in making this call and it’s this selfless approach that will help us get back to contending for silverware.”
Originally revealed as Former North Melbourne captain Jack Ziebell will retire at season’s finish
Source: www.dailytelegraph.com.au
