RICHARD Tambling has decided to retire from AFL football, ending his career on 124 games.
Adelaide delisted Tambling, 27, in October and he considered taking his chances of finding a new club through the pre-season or rookie draft.
However after much consideration he has chosen to move on to the next phase of his life.
Tambling's manager, Ben Williams of Players Ink, told adelaidefc.com.au that the father of two wanted to start a new chapter.
"Richard has dedicated the last nine years to AFL football," Williams said.
"He is a 100-game player and retires knowing that he gave it his all."
Tambling's decision ends a career that began with fanfare and expectation when Richmond selected him at No.4 in the 2004 AFL draft.
He made his debut in round 6, 2005 against Port Adelaide but he never reached the heights others set for him after a glittering junior career.
The pacy outside midfielder played 95 games in his first five years with the Tigers and showed glimpses of his talent but rarely dominated.
He was often unfairly compared with Hawthorn star Lance Franklin who was selected at pick No.5 in the 2004 draft, one selection after Tambling.
Tambling played just one year under Tigers coach Damien Hardwick before being traded to Adelaide, where he played just 16 games in three seasons.
Tambling was originally recruited from the Southern Districts football club in the Northern Territory.
