Essendon defender Patrick Ambrose has called time on his AFL career.
Injuries restricted the 29-year-old to just one senior appearance since the Bombers’ Elimination Final loss to West Coast in 2019.
Ambrose played 88 games for Essendon after being drafted as a rookie in 2013. His contract was due to expire at the end of the season.
“I’m really proud to have worn the famous red and black guernsey for the past eight seasons,” Ambrose said in a club statement.
“Footy has thrown a lot of challenges and my fair share of injuries, but it was the feeling of running out with my teammates every week that kept me going.
“In the end I had to be realistic with my ability to perform and train at the level required, which has become challenging after a long journey with this foot injury.
“I walk away from the game knowing I gave it my all, and now the time is right to hang up the boots. I’m really excited for the next chapter of my life with partner Ali and our young daughter Summer.
“I wish the boys all the very best for their journey ahead. I’ll miss being around the boys and at the club each day, but we all know it’s going to be pretty exciting to watch this young side in the years to come.
“Finally, to our loyal members and supporters, I want to say thank you for your support of this great club. Stick with us because it will be pretty exciting to be a Bomber over the next few years.”
Ambrose won the Adam Ramanauskas Most Courageous Player award in 2017 and 2019.