Essendon has paid tribute to Paul Chapman at the Crichton Medal.

The former Cat announced his retirement from the game last month.

He played 29 matches with the Bombers and kicked 30 goals after joining the Club ahead of the 2014 season.

“I would just like to thank the Essendon Football Club for the way they welcomed me,” Chapman said.

“Straight away my wife, family and I felt part of the Essendon family.

“The resilience you guys have shown is something I will take away most.

“I feel like I belong and I love the way you’ve embraced me.”

The 33 year old played 280 games throughout a decorated career spanning 16 seasons.

He was a key part of three premiership teams with Geelong and also won a Norm Smith Medal.

Interim Essendon Coach Matthew Egan praised Chapman throughout the season for his ruthless approach to the game.

“He’s an absolute superstar,” he said. 

“I spoke to the group about why Chappy was successful – he’s a ruthless competitor.”

“He would make sure he won everything – you saw it in games, he’s a big game player - finals and Grand Finals, he was always performing.”