GEELONG champion Jimmy Bartel says it will be hard to watch the Cats next year knowing he had a valuable contribution to make, but he is not bitter about the club's decision to part with him.

Bartel retired on Wednesday after 305 games and three premierships, having reached a mutual decision with the Cats to end his career, despite reaching a trigger in his contract to play on.

The Brownlow medallist said he respected the "decision they've gone with" but he felt he had more to offer Geelong in 2017. 

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"I was never going to be the player I was 10 years ago, but I thought the player I was the last couple of years was something of value," Bartel told SEN.

"I've got to weigh up if that's just the competitor in me and sometimes you can get a little close to it.

"I thought maybe in a reduced capacity I could have offered something, but that's OK … I'm not bitter, I'm not upset or anything like that.

"I completely respect everything the club's done and the decision they've gone with."

Bartel praised Geelong for the opportunities the club gave him over a decorated 15-year career, with his accolades including the 2007 Brownlow Medal, the 2011 Norm Smith Medal and two All Australian selections.

"I owe so much to the Geelong footy club," he said.  

"They showed faith in drafting me and then put so much time and effort into helping me turn into the player you end up being. 

"The opportunities they presented to me not only in football, but in life, I'm forever in their debt.

"The last year, it could have been done differently, but I'm not one to dwell on all of that."

Bartel's campaign through 2016 to raise awareness of domestic violence had been rewarding, he said, but also "a little bit saddening that so many people can relate to it". 

"It's probably going to have a greater impact on my whole life, not just my sporting life," he said.  

The 32-year-old said he was keen to stay involved in football, but list management and administration held more appeal to him than coaching.

"I don't think coaching at this stage is something for me," he said.

"This time of year with trade week, list management and all that probably interests me a little bit more."