Nick Holman (right) walks out for game 150 against the Hawks earlier this season.
Kyabram product Nick Holman has announced his AFL retirement after a 154-game career characterised by grit and determination.
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Selected by Carlton with the 51st pick of the 2013 AFL National Draft after a season that included a Victoria Country MVP and a decisive Goulburn Valley League grand final performance that helped Kyabram break a 17-year flag drought, Holman went on to play nine games for the Blues.
Delisted in 2016, Holman made the move across to South Australia, and after an impressive two-season stint in the SANFL, Gold Coast rookie-listed the hard-nosed Central Districts star ahead of the 2018 season.
He has been a Suns favourite ever since on the back of his reputation as one of the club’s fiercest competitors, playing 146 games and booting 79 goals in his time up north.
Holman, speaking to teammates and assembled club media, paid tribute to the Suns, Blues, and family and friends for helping him “live out a childhood dream.”
“It’s been a big couple of days with lots of emotions, but I’m proud of the fact I’ve given my all every day throughout the journey,” he said.
“I want to thank both the Gold Coast SUNS and Carlton football clubs for giving me the chance to live out a childhood dream.
“To the SUNS, thank you for taking the chance on me. I’m extremely grateful for this football club and I’d like to think I’ve repaid that faith as a player. This place is full of great people and it’s been such an amazing place to come to work every day.
“My favourite part of playing AFL football has been being able to bring so many people along on the journey.
“Friends and family have travelled all across the country watching me play and having the opportunity to give back to those people who have given so much to me is the most rewarding part and my greatest achievement.”
Nick Holman celebrates one of his three goals during the 2013 Goulburn Valley League grand final.
Photo by
Ray Sizer
He departs Gold Coast 12th on the clubs all-time games played list, and the 31-year-old’s final bow will be at Marvel Stadium this Thursday night against St Kilda.
“Now it’s time for the next chapter and one I’m excited for,” Holman said.
“I leave this place knowing it’s in great hands with a list full of youth, talent and hard work.
“It’s a recipe for success and I’m looking forward to watching that unfold from the stands.
“Now, we’ve got one more job to get done on Thursday night.”
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