Port Adelaide’s former captain has shocked the football world by announcing his retirement from the game.
Former Port Adelaide captain Dominic Cassisi will retire from AFL football following Sunday’s match against Melbourne at Adelaide Oval.
Cassisi made the announcement on Thursday morning that his long and decorated career would come to a close this weekend.
The 31-year-old, who captained Port Adelaide between 2009 and 2012, said that due to persistent niggling injuries his body could no longer handle the rigours of AFL football, and that it was time to pass on the baton to the next generation.
“It’s been amazing and I’ve lived my absolute dream to play AFL,” Cassisi told portadelaidefc.com.au.
“I have just felt honoured and privileged to play for the one club.
“To win a premiership and wear the captain’s number one guernsey is just such an honour.
“I think it’s time for me to hand the baton to the next group of young players coming through.
“I leave the game really happy and content, particularly with where the club is at right now.”
Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley said that Cassisi had always put the team first, which was epitomised in his decision to retire.
“Dom Cassisi is an outstanding leader for this football club,” Hinkley told portadelaidefc.com.au.
“Dom leads by example in the team-first attitude he displays in everything he does, in my time at the football club he’s been nothing but supportive of what we’re doing.
“He’s been selfless in the way he’s handled himself throughout, for him it’s all about what’s best for Port Adelaide.
“Dom’s decision, now, is about giving a younger player an opportunity as he feels it’s the right thing for the team.”
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