EAGLE GREAT CALLS TIME

Luke Shuey has announced his impending retirement at the close of the 2023 season. The West Coast captain, with 247 games to his name, said his body has simply let him down.

Shuey, 33, injured his hamstring in late July and it’s unlikely, but possible, that he’s played his last game.

Despite the Eagles’ poor season in his last year at the club, Shuey has faith that the club is on the right track.

“As much as my mind wants to go on, my body won’t allow it and I have made the decision to retire at the end of this season,” Shuey said.

“We have tried everything to get my body right so I can contribute as I would like, but unfortunately a series of hamstring injuries have led me to this decision.

“I also have great confidence in the senior players who will take the club forward to guide an exciting group of youngsters.

“We are at an important phase of the rebuild. We’ll bring in more talented youngsters in this year’s draft and I know I will enjoy seeing them all make their mark on the competition in the coming years.

“I am incredibly grateful to the football club for the opportunities they have given me, the support I have received since the day I set foot in here and the very special memories that have been created.

“Being a part of a premiership means I will have a lifelong connection with 21 other blokes, but it doesn’t end there.

“The friendships I have made with players, coaches and staff over the last 15 years will remain with me forever.

“I would like to thank my senior coaches – John Worsfold and Adam Simpson – and all my teammates over the journey.

“To my wife Dani, (children) Oliver and Georgia, thank you so much for your amazing support. I look forward to spending some more time with you and also to forging the next chapter.”

Shuey will be most notably remembered for his Norm Smith Medal-winning performance against Collingwood in the 2018 Grand Final.

Simpson, his long-time coach, praised of the dual best and fairest winner.

“Luke has been a remarkable player for our club, but he also been a wonderful role model and leader,” Simpson said.

“We have seen that impact even this year when he has been able to play but, unfortunately, he has not been able to get out there as often as he would have liked.

“He has driven high standards throughout his career and has certainly provided a great example right from the get-go for the young players who will be the future.

“He will always be a great of the club and we look forward to celebrating his contribution over the closing weeks of the season.”