After 13 years at AFL level, Essendon ruckman Andrew Phillips has announced he will retire at the end of the season.
Phillips told his teammates of his decision to hang up the boots at Tuesday morning’s team meeting.
“I've been privileged to represent three great football clubs over the journey and I’ll always have a soft spot for the club. I've loved my past four years here and it's the people here who have made my time in the red and black so enjoyable,” Phillips said.
"As I've gotten older, I've realised that the most enjoyment you get out of football is working with your teammates and seeing them flourish. To be able to play alongside and guide my fellow rucks has been crucial to me enjoying my footy and I can't wait to see what they achieve in their careers.
"I want to thank everyone, from my family to teammates, staff to supporters, who supported me throughout the journey. I wouldn't be the player or person without you behind me.
“The time feels right to finish up and head home to Tassie. To my family, Teagan and the kids, thank you. You’ve been there for most of my career, I couldn’t fault your support and I love coming home to you, win or loss.”
2023 has been a career-best season for the 32-year-old, having played 18 games, averaging 21.7 hit outs and kicking four goals.
Phillips has been an excellent role model for fellow rucks Sam Draper and Nick Bryan, developing a unique partnership with Draper, which became a catalyst for the Bombers’ victories at the start of the year.
A journeyman, Phillips has played at three clubs and currently sits on 79 games.
Starting his career in 2012 as a Greater Western Sydney foundation player, Phillips notched up 14 games for the Giants before seeking a trade to Carlton at the end of 2015.
Having an immediate impact in the ruck for the Blues, Phillips played 16 senior games in his first year, finishing with 27 games across four seasons before requesting a trade to Essendon ahead of 2020.
Since arriving at the NEC Hangar, Phillips has played 38 games, being a physical presence on the field and a leader for his peers.
GM of Football Josh Mahoney thanked Phillips’ contribution to the Bombers over the past four years.
“While we are sad to see ‘Flip’ finish up, his career is the definition of resilience having started as a rookie and playing 12 seasons at three clubs. We congratulate him on his career and thank him for his impact at Essendon,” Mahoney said.
“Andrew is a fantastic club person, always putting the team first and doing whatever he can to better his teammates. This was demonstrated through his mentorship of Sam Draper and Nick Bryan, as well as Steph Wales in the AFLW program.
