Sydney premiership player Sam Reid has announced his retirement, effective immediately.
Reid has battled numerous injuries over the past six years to see his availability at AFL level significantly impacted, with the 32-year-old playing 61 games since the end of the 2017 season.
The veteran swingman has not featured in coach John Longmire's side this season after an extensive rehabilitation earlier this year.
Reid recently returned to the field through the VFL but has suffered a fresh setback, with the Victorian informing teammates of his decision to retire on Tuesday.
"I have called the Sydney Swans home for the past 15 seasons and I'm so grateful for the time I have had here at the club,โ Reid said in a club statement.
"Since arriving from Victoria all those years ago I've grown up from a 17-year-old school kid to now having a wife and two kids of my own. The club has looked after me and my family so well and I can't thank them enough for the opportunity I've been given.
โI will look back with so many great memories of playing here โ the people I've been able to work with have been incredible and a big reason why I lasted 15 years. Of course, the 2012 Premiership sticks out in my mind as the footballing highlight.
โI want to say thank you to the entire football club, the players past and present, the coaching staff, and of course all the Swans members who have supported me along the journey.โ
Reid joined the Swans through the 2009 National Draft as the 38th overall pick and would make his debut the following year against Brisbane.
The 196cm forward-defender hybrid played 23 games the year after to cement his place in the Swans' side, with Reid going on to hold a role in the club's 2012 premiership team under Longmire.
Reid booted 31 goals that year to rank third at Sydney in their flag run - with that tally a career-best for the Murray Bushrangers product.
"Sam has been a highly valued member of our team, it has been a privilege and pleasure to coach him,โ Longmire said of the long-serving Swan.
โSam has played several roles for the team and has always been valued for his football smarts and team-first ethos.
โHe has faced many challenges with injuries over the years, and his commitment and dedication to rehab has always been of a very high standard.
โWe are grateful for all Sam, Kim, Saxon and Harley have given to our club and wish them all the very best for the future."
The veteran tall ends his career with 183 goals from 181 games, having shared his time at either end of the field.
Reid featured in 14 finals matches, including grand finals in 2012, 2013 and 2022.
