IT was an unexpected tap on the shoulder, but one James McDonald agreed was made in Melbourne's best interests. The much-loved skipper yesterday announced he would retire at the end of this season, after bravely leading the club through one of its darkest periods. The heart-and-soul midfielder said he felt capable of playing on next season but was told, very respectfully, to pull the pin.
The Age
MELBOURNE captain James McDonald will step away from football in the same selfless manner that has been a feature of his distinguished 14-year career. He will play his 250th game on Sunday against Port Adelaide and his last game in round 22 after the club called time on the former rookie, who rose through the ranks to lead the Demons' revival. ''My time's come to an end at the Melbourne Football Club and it sits comfortably with me now," he said.
The Australian
Demons captain put club first
MELBOURNE captain James McDonald would love to have stayed for the good times. But when the tap on the shoulder came this week from Dean Bailey, the consummate clubman saw the bigger picture.Having come off the rookie list in 1997, McDonald, 33, will retire after the season's final two matches, against Port Adelaide and North Melbourne, as one of only seven men to reach the 250-game milestone for the sport's oldest club.
