Veteran West Coast Eagles forward Josh Kennedy has confirmed Sunday’s home game against Adelaide will be his last in the AFL.
Key points:
- Kennedy leaves the Eagles after 15 seasons with the club
- He is the leading scorer with 704 goals
- He is retiring because of injury issues
Kennedy, 34, will depart the game as West Coast’s leading goal kicker, a three-time All-Australian, dual Coleman medalist and premiership player.
He was an integral part of the club’s 2018 premiership side as West Coast’s only multiple goal kicker on the day, with three crucial majors.
He also had 18 disposals and took 11 marks as the Eagles claimed their fourth premiership.
Drafted by Carlton at pick No.4 overall from East Fremantle in 2005, Kennedy played 22 games for the Blues before somewhat reluctantly agreeing to be involved in the famous trade that sent West Coast premiership captain Chris Judd to the Blues at the end of 2007.
After a stellar career spanning 17 seasons, Kennedy said his body has had enough.
“My knee is a big reason for retiring. I think my drive to play is still there, but I’m realistic my body is not going to be able to take me to another season,” he said.
“To be able to farewell West Coast supporters one last time at Optus Stadium and say thank you for the incredible support over the years will be the perfect way to finish my career.”
Club farewells ‘one of the greats’
West Coast CEO Trevor Nisbett said the club was blessed to have had Kennedy for the last 15 seasons.
“We have been fortunate to have many great players come through the doors of our club over our 35 years and Josh ranks with the best of them,” he said.
“His achievements compare to the greatest in the history of the game. He is our highest-ever goal kicker and one of our most durable players.
“But his on-field achievements are only part of the story. He has been a guiding light for our younger players, but also a significant contributor across the broader community.”
Coach Adam Simpson said Kennedy was loved by his teammates and would go into history books as one of the greatest players.
“Josh is going to be one of the game’s greats and one of the club’s greats,” he said.
“What he’s done in my time at the club, it’s just been a pleasure to see and watch. Coleman Medals, the ability to stand up in big games. Clutch, not just goals, but clutch moments.”
Sunday’s game against the Crows will be his 292th AFL game.
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