Brent Staker announced his retirement in front of the Brisbane Lions playing group today.
After 160 games and 13 years on the field, the key position player called it a game in a heartfelt speech, showing his gratitude for the experience he’s gained and the friendships he’s made.
“I look back now, reflecting at 31 and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’m really happy, I’m rapt.”
Staker enjoyed a long career spanning thirteen years, which began at the West Coast Eagles in 2003.
On West Coast, Staker said, “I had seven years of my career there, I gave my heart there. I really appreciate everyone I met there, they’ve been fantastic.”
After playing 110 games and booting 84 goals for the West Coast Eagles, he was drafted to the Brisbane Lions in 2009.
Despite a wretched run with injury, he remained a valuable member of the Lions’ side with his versatility enabling him to play at either end of the ground.
“Special mention to the Lions medical team. I think the only injury I had was a broken thumb at West Coast. Since I’ve been at the Lions they’ve had to put up with countless problems. I can’t ask for better support.”
With nearly half of his playing career at the Lions, Staker thanked the Lions for providing him with an opportunity to go further.
“I’ve had six years here. To get drafted once is extremely lucky, but to get picked up again I consider as winning the lotto twice.”
“I love this footy club for taking me in and giving me the opportunity it has.”
“It’s not easy retiring and I had mixed emotions coming into the week.”
“But I’ve obviously loved every part of my career, I wouldn’t change it - everyone I’ve met, people outside of footy, the footy fraternity has been unreal."
"The friendships I’ve made throughout I wouldn’t change it.
The boy from Broken Hill didn’t miss out on thanking his family, who’ve been unable to attend a majority of his games.
“Lastly, I’d like to thank my family, they’ve been really good, a great support.”
“I’ve played 160 games and they’ve only seen about 20, so that’s tough for me. I love them very much.”
In his message, Staker shared his inspiration, which got him through a tough career.
At the time of my second knee reconstruction, I got a text from John Worsfold and he said ‘Sorry to hear about your injury. Get up again and do what you love.’”
“That last sentence, I engrained in my mind over and over again for a twelve-month period, throughout 2012, and it helped me get through those tough times. Something really small but helped me get to the next level.”
Brent Staker will finish out the 2015 season before commencing his retirement.
