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Douglas Kicks Away

The Adelaide Crows told veteran midfielder Richard Douglas that he would not be offered a new contract for 2020. The club even released a statement saying Douglas was going to retire at the end of the season. Saint David Armitage also announced he would be leaving St Kilda and looking for another club in 2020.

Douglas, though, has no intention of retiring if another club wants him. Douglas, 32, is also interested in coaching if he cannot add to his 246 game tally. Douglas said he respected the club's decision, "The club's looking to go down another direction and need to get some youth into the list ...". As for his future, he said, "I'm certainly open to any options. The body feels good, and you never say never. If the opportunity's there and clubs are interested, you'd certainly look at it ... I understand there are some clubs ... that are looking for experienced players ... I haven't spoken to any other clubs... I'm open to other things like other players who have retired recently."

Coach Don Pyke praised Douglas for his contribution to the club, "Just a smart player, he reads the play well ... he's a ripping guy who gets on well with everyone and he's got a good footy brain. I'm sure he'll go on and do something in the coaching area." Pyke continued that the club was not planning a massive clean out, "I still think there's a place for a lot of our senior players ...". Douglas won the club's best and fairest award in 2010 and placed second in 2013.

 

Dunstan is tackled and fends off to Armitage
Armitage handballs

Armitage, 31, played just two games in 2019 and has been sidelined due to concussion. in making the announcement, Armitage said, "I felt embraced by the club the second I walked in the door. I feel very honored to have played for this great club for 13 years and I’ll treasure the friendships I have made along the way. I could not have achieved any of it without the support from my family, friends, teammates and coaches, and I thank them for everything ... I also want to thank the St Kilda fans for their support ... ".

General Manager Simon Lethlean said Armitage had given great service to the club, “Dave should be incredibly proud of what he was able to achieve ... His past few years have unfortunately been hampered by injury, but at his prime he was right up there with the best midfielders in the game. Despite the setbacks, he has continued to be a huge presence ... helping drive a culture that can deliver success ...".

Source: afl.com.au, Clair White, St Kilda Media Release

Article last changed on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 - 2:47 PM EDT


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