Liam Shiels has announced his retirement from the game after 16 seasons across two clubs.
The 33-year-old will line up for his 288th and final game on Saturday afternoon at UTAS Stadium against his former club, Hawthorn.
Shiels joined the Hawks as a 17-year-old with pick No.34 in the 2008 AFL Draft and debuted in Round 10 the following year against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
He soon established himself as one of Hawthorn’s most reliable and courageous players, featuring 255 times in the brown and gold and playing a key role in the club’s premiership three-peat of 2013, 2014 and 2015.
‘Pup’ briefly called time on his playing career at the end of the 2022 season before reuniting with long-time coach Alastair Clarkson at North Melbourne during the 2023 pre-season supplemental selection period.
The veteran has added 32 more games to his tally across two seasons at Arden Street, offering a wealth of experience and leadership to the Roos’ emerging midfield.
Shiels shared his gratitude with the club on Tuesday as he reflected on his AFL career.
“I’ve been lucky enough to do what I love for the last 16 years and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to play out my last couple of years at the North Melbourne Football Club,” Shiels said.
“I always thought I’d be a one-club player, but I’ll always be proud to have finished my football here. As much as I hoped I could have done more to put more wins on the board, these have been some of the most fulfilling years I’ve had.
“To the North Melbourne Football Club. I’ve only been here two years but it feels like I’ve been here much longer. I’ve made some lifelong friends which I’m so grateful for. Thank you for the opportunity.
“To the Hawthorn Football Club. You gave me my first opportunity when you drafted me as a school kid at the end of 2008. I was lucky enough to achieve the ultimate success three times over. I couldn’t have asked for anything more.
“And to ‘Clarko’. You’ve backed me in from day dot. You nicknamed me ‘Pup’ when I was 17 and you’ve made sure I’ve squeezed as much out of myself as possible and then some more.
“I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without your guidance, care and support. I have loved playing for you and I have learned so much off you about the game but more importantly about life and this has made me a better person, husband and now father.”
North Melbourne's general manager of football Todd Viney thanked Shiels for his contribution to the club.
“On arriving at the club two years ago, we knew Pup’s experience, professionalism and influence would have a positive impact on the group. Fast forward to now, the impact he’s had has been enormous, his contribution has exceeded our expectations,” Viney said.
“He’s been the ultimate team player. Any role thrown his way whether it be on the wing, in the midfield, as a high half-forward or in a run-with role, Pup was willing to do anything to help our team become better.
“His leadership both on-field and off-field, his strength of character and his humility as a person is a credit to him.
“We’re a better club for him and his partner Claire and son Tommy being part of it.”
