Jason Winderlich has decided to hang up the boots after his body denied him the opportunity to play regular football this season.
The 30 year-old said he felt he could walk away from the game knowing he had nothing left to give.
“I’m disappointed I could only manage to play one senior game this season,” Winderlich said.
“It’s been well documented my career has been interrupted by injury, and while this year didn’t pan out the way I would have liked, I hang up the boots with no regrets.
“The Club has been fantastic to me, and I’ve said it before, but to play for the team you supported as a kid is incredible, and I’ve made plenty of life-long mates along the way.
“I’ll miss the banter around the rooms with the boys and Reidy, but it’s time for me to turn my attention to my family and my business and I’m excited about the next chapter of my life.
“The members and fans have always been good to me and I can’t thank them enough for the way they’ve supported me over my career, and I hope they stick by the boys next season and beyond.”
CEO, Xavier Campbell, congratulated Jason on his career and the resilience he showed over his football journey.
“At the peak of his fitness, Jason was one of the most exciting players to watch in the Essendon team,” Campbell said.
“While injury robbed him of countless games, his resilience and determination to can’t be questioned. He gave everything when he wore the Essendon jumper.”
“Everyone at the Club wishes Jason and his family all the very best for the next chapter of their lives.”
Jason was drafted from Gippsland U18, pick number 11 overall, at the 2002 National Draft. He made his debut against Richmond in Round 7, 2003.
His lightning pace, defensive pressure and accurate kick for goal saw him carve out a 129 game career in the Bombers forward line.
Jason had an impressive season in 2007 before a prolapsed disc ended his 2008 campaign. Jason made a successful return from back surgery in 2009, finishing with ten Brownlow votes and a fifth place finish in the club’s Crichton Medal. He mirrored his exciting form in 2010, playing nineteen games and finishing third in the club best and fairest.
