The shy teenager from the Wimmera who went on to become one of the greatest players the sport has seen bowed out of the game on Saturday after the Swans’ semi final loss to North Melbourne. Goodes, 35, grew up in Horsham and made his senior debut for the Swans in 1999, eventually playing 372 games for Sydney.

During his decorated career he won two premierships, two Brownlow medals, four All-Australian honours, three club best and fairest awards and became the indigenous games record-holder. Coach John Longmire said Goodes was emotional afterwards but “handled it really well”.

“He got everyone together and said that’s enough. He’s retired after an absolutely magnificent career,” he said.