HAWTHORN'S four-time premiership great Jarryd Roughead will play a farewell match this weekend, which will officially bring to a close his glittering 15-year career.
The Hawks announced on Monday that Roughead would take on the Suns at Marvel Stadium, which will act as the 283rd and final game of his AFL career.
Roughead, a Coleman Medal winner, a two-time All Australian and a former captain of the club, has endured a difficult season out of the senior team throughout 2019.
However, he will be recalled for a 'farewell game' against Gold Coast on Sunday.
"I’ve had an amazing 15-year journey with the Hawthorn Football Club," Roughead said.
"I am content with everything I have achieved in my career to date and I know it’s the right time for myself, my family and the club.
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"To play this great game for such a long time and to have experienced success like we have is something I’ll never take for granted.
"I want to thank everyone at the Hawthorn Football Club for supporting me through all the highs and lows. The bonds and friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime.
"And lastly, a big thank you to the Hawthorn members and supporters. It’s been an incredibly humbling experience playing in front of you for all these years."
Alastair Clarkson has been Roughead's coach throughout his stellar 15-year career and hailed his impact since he arrived as the second pick in the 2004 NAB AFL Draft.
"Rough has been an outstanding custodian of the brown and gold for such a long time," Clarkson said.
"His football smarts, resilience and intensely competitive spirit are what make him one of those rare, special players that don’t come along too often.
"Like any player who plays for a long period of time, Rough has had to endure both the highs and the lows that life can sometimes present, while playing footy at the elite level. In these times, he has always demonstrated courage, humility and dignity.
"We are lucky to have witnessed such an extraordinary career.
"I’d like to thank Rough, wife Sarah and daughter Pippa for the wonderful impact they have had on our footy club.
"We wish them all the best for their next adventure and they will always be part of the Hawthorn family."
