Essendon veteran Dyson Heppell has called time on his 14-year career, with the loyal Bomber to hang up the boots after Essendon's final game in 2024.
The 32-year-old informed teammates about his decision on Tuesday morning.
“At the seasons end I'll be hanging up the boots. I've been wrestling with the decision for a number of weeks and it's a decision that certainly hasn't come lightly or been an easy one but one that I'm super content with,” Heppell said.
Heppell reflected on his decision, saying he was ready to retire to provide opportunity for the young crop coming through the ranks at The Hangar.
“In my own mind I always wanted to call it a day while I was still playing decent footy and that if it got to a point where we've got other boys primed and ready to play my role then I know it's time.
"No doubt there's a little competitive dog part of me that's in my ear telling me to go one more but after considering all possibilities and having the opportunity to go out on my own terms it just feels like the right call," the former captain said.
Heppell joined the Bombers in 2010 after being selected at pick No.8 in the National Draft. A one-club man, Heppell achieved a range of individual accolades throughout his career at Windy Hill, including an All-Australian blazer and Crichton Medal in 2014, and winning the Rising Star award in 2011.
A part of the playing group suspended in 2016 for Essendon's supplements saga, Heppell returned in 2017 and was awarded captain as his leadership developed. He would lead the club until 2022.
Heppell recently reached the 250-game milestone in Round 17 against Geelong, becoming just the 15th player in Essendon history to achieve the feat. Playing 17 games this year, he'll be in line to play the last two games of the home-and-away season, and potentially more should the Bombers qualify for finals.
Essendon are still alive in season 2024, facing tough opponents Sydney and Brisbane to round out their year.