We all knew he’d been struggling with injuries over the past few seasons, but to finally hear that his playing days are over still came as a bit of a shock.
The news certainly hit home to a lot of the boys, particularly considering Charmo had only just recently turned 29, which is a relatively young age to be forced into retirement.
Fortunately the big fella was able to forge out 11 years at the highest level, over which time he played 129 games and five finals - including the 2003 premiership. So there’s no doubting that he’ll look back and be proud of what he was able to achieve.
While he hasn’t played a lot of footy recently, his attitude around the Club has been amazing. He is a true ‘mozzie’ and one of the funniest and most genuine blokes you will ever meet. You only have to watch the latest round of Polks' 'Brainbusters' to see what sort of character he is.
Most people would see him as the ‘joker’, but he also has a real determination which I have been able to experience first-hand - particularly over the past three seasons.
Despite his recent injury setbacks, Charmo has always been determined to get back out onto the field. His commitment to preparation and rehabilitation during this time has been nothing short of inspiring. He’s done extra work in the gym and on the track, travelled interstate to see specialists and has left no stone unturned in his drive to play senior footy.
All the boys were rapt that he was able to play for the Lions Reserves a couple of weeks ago, and from all accounts he looked back to his old self out on the field. But unfortunately it seems as though his body didn’t pull up too well afterwards. There was never any doubt that he was going to try everything to have at least one last crack at playing. That’s the kind of guy he is.
In my early years at the Club, Charmo was the number one ruckman and really took me under his wing. At training he would be sure to spend extra time coaching me through a few different things and point me in the right direction.
Even this year while he’s been sidelined, I’ve spent considerable time with him to help improve some of the aspects of my game. It’s probably fair to say he’s played a huge role in my development.
I’m sure he’ll have no problems with his life outside of football. He’s a proven media performer, has a bit of experience under his belt now in coaching and would be a fantastic person to keep around the Club in any type role. I’m sure he’ll probably take time over the next couple of weeks to consider where he wants to head next.
Hopefully we can give Charmo a fitting farewell with a few wins to finish off the season.
