Cameron Bruce
Cameron Bruce stood in front of the playing group and support staff to announce his retirement from AFL football on Tuesday. He played his first senior game in the year 2000, and had a stellar career culminating in 234 games.
Brucey played his final 10 games at Hawthorn after joining us last year. In a very short time he has had a significant impact within our playing group. And although we were unfortunate not to have seen his best on the field, we certainly saw it around the club.
It's not an easy move to change clubs at his age, particularly when you consider the romantic notion attached to remaining a one-club player.
Brucey is a terrific fella, who integrated in such a manner that it felt as if he'd been a Hawk his entire career. He will be with us for the remaining weeks this season, assisting the coaches and the players where possible.
He left a lasting message with us all the other day, remarking on how quickly a career passes and how important it is to grasp all opportunities possible. I have not heard a retirement speech where that concept has not been mentioned.
Yet I have no doubt there is not a retired player with a few lingering "what ifs" that creep into their subconscious when they look back at games, or moments that have defined outcomes or careers. Countless hours of preparation, and of battle and recovery, builds a comradery that cannot be described to those that have not experienced life within a football club. These will be foremost in the memories of those who retire.
If we knew we had one game left to play, would it be approached differently?
Such a philosophical question this meat head does not have the ability to delve too deeply into. I can only acknowledge that I would like to think we are doing everything possible to achieve success.
Changing gears now: Myles came home in a huff the other night. He was quick to reel off his stats and impact on the field over the past month (detailed beyond belief and having calculated his own Supercoach score).
In recent years Myles has quipped that he is the pin-up boy for The Courier. Only this week it appears there may be an affair of sorts unfolding right before our eyes.
It is an extraordinary effort to represent Victoria, regardless of the sport. Yet to be named captain is a true honor, and I have no doubt that Adam will captain with aplomb.
And while the love-fest continues, I must mention the fourth sibling, who is carrying the senior Redan netball team. Or so I'm lead to believe. Keep up the good work Mikaela.
Meanwhile, Mum and Dad keep racking up the kilometres. With another busy weekend ahead.
