GIANTS leader Matt de Boer has called time on his illustrious 14-season career after 223 games at the GIANTS and Dockers.
Drafted to Fremantle in the 2009 rookie draft, the 32-year-old's story is one of drive and determination.
The West Australian native made his debut in the Western Derby in round six, 2009 before playing 138 games for the Dockers over eight seasons. He was named the Dockers’ Best Clubman in 2010 and 2011.
De Boer joined the GIANTS with pick 58 in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft with his exceptional leadership recognised in 2018 as he was added to the club's leadership group. He was awarded the GIANTS’ Coaches Award in the club’s Grand Final year of 2019.
Renowned as one of the game’s premier taggers - as well as being able to play as a midfielder and forward - de Boer passed the 200-game milestone in 2020.
De Boer informed his teammates of his decision on Thursday morning.
“The GIANTS organisation and its people are truly a special place and have had a profound impact on not only me but my wife, family and friends,” de Boer said.
“My heart is unequivocally full of gratitude and love for the friendships, memories and opportunities that playing in the AFL has availed me.
“I’d particularly like to thank Leon Cameron for believing in me and challenging me always to be the best version of myself.
“I’d also like to thank the Fremantle Dockers for first recruiting me and, in particular, Mark Harvey and Ross Lyon for teaching me the abnormal effort and football IQ required to perform at the highest level.”
GIANTS General Manager of Football Jason McCartney congratulated de Boer on his wonderful career.
“Matt is the ultimate clubman and epitomises everything you want in a leader,” McCartney said.
“He’s diligent and resilient and got the most out of himself as a footballer, while contributing enormously to team standards and culture.
“Most AFL players never reach 200 AFL games and Matt’s career is a testament to his hard work, sacrifice and relentless pursuit of excellence.
“Drafted as a rookie, delisted and starting again in Sydney – Matt could have easily given up at any point but his determination and drive to make himself, and others, better is unquestionable.
“While we’re sad to see Matt depart, he’ll always be a GIANT and he leaves an incredible mark upon all those he played alongside.
“His dedication to his football has been matched by his preparation for life after football and he’s already had incredible success off the field with his company, Athletic Ventures.
“We wish him and wife Rachael all the best for the next chapter of their lives.”
