Tigers defender quits
10/24/2011 05:41:11 AM
Richmond defender Will Thursfield has announced his retirement from AFL football at the age of just 25.
Thursfield, who was out of contract, played 77 games for the Tigers following his elevation from the rookie list in 2005
"There are some other avenues in my life I'm keen to pursue, and I just felt the time was right to step away from AFL football," Thursfield said.
"I'm proud to have played the game at the highest level over the past seven seasons, and have enjoyed my involvement at Richmond, but I'm now looking forward to taking up these opportunities."
Thursfield made his AFL debut in Round 14, 2005 but was sidelined for much of the following season when he ruptured the anterior cruciate and medial ligaments in his left knee against the Saints at Etihad Stadium.
He returned in 2007 to earn a Rising Star nomination but struggled for form and fitness over the past couple of seasons.
"We wish Will all the best as he pursues the next phase of his life," said Richmond's football operations manager, Craig Cameron.
"Will has been part of the Richmond family for seven years, and we want to thank him for the contribution he has made to the club."