“I feel like it’s time to step aside and give the younger guys at the club some more opportunities,” Harding told kangaroos.com.au.
“It’s up to them now to take the club forward and the last thing I wanted was to stand in their way and deny them the chance to develop.
“I think it’s up to the older guys like me to realise when their time has come and make sure they don’t hold anyone back.”
Elevated from the rookie list in 2001, Harding had an immediate impact with the Kangaroos. He booted 33 goals in 2002 and followed up with another 33 the following year - quickly cementing a role in the side as a crumbing forward with outstanding pace.
“There may have been a chance to play on for another couple of years elsewhere but I really don’t want to play for any other club.”
Nicknamed ‘Turtle’, Harding was the club’s leading goal kicker in 2003 and was used in a variety of roles late in his career including stints in the midfield and back-line.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity the club gave me when I was rookie-listed. I was knocked back in a few drafts previous to being selected by the Kangaroos.
“I have played with some of the greats of the game including Carey, Archer, Stevens, Simpson, Rocca and Harvey and will take away some amazing memories.”
In 2010 Harding managed 12 games in the senior side and also played a pivotal role in North Ballarat’s third consecutive VFL premiership win. He was awarded with life membership of the North Melbourne Football Club at the club’s best and fairest dinner and will be remembered for his blistering speed and versatility.
“Receiving the life membership was a true honour as was being able to finish off with a VFL premiership alongside Corey Jones and David Hale.
“Playing in Jason McCartney’s last game at Etihad Stadium will always be a standout for me as it was such an emotional night and I had a hand in sealing the win with a goal right at the end.”
The North Melbourne Football Club considers Harding’s retirement a truly selfless act and wishes him every success in the future.
“There has been a lot of talk recently about loyalty in football becoming a rare commodity; with that in mind, Leigh’s actions have been honorable and loyal in every sense,” North Melbourne chief of football Donald McDonald said.
“The way in which Leigh has carried himself throughout his career is a real credit to him. He has had his role changed several times but has always adapted with class and maturity. Despite some pretty serious injuries, Leigh had always returned stronger and had a real impact in the side.
“The commitment he has shown this club is of the highest standard and I cannot speak highly enough of him.”
Harding will soon finish his degree in Exercise Science and will continue to work with the Victoria Spirit women’s cricket team.
