Sydney Swans defender Jeremy Laidler has called an end to his 10-year AFL career, having played 87-games for three clubs.
Drafted by Geelong in the 2008 Rookie Draft with pick 32, Laidler played two games for the Cats before he was traded to the Blues in 2010.
He made his way to the Swans as a delisted free agent in 2013 after playing 24 games for Carlton.
The 28-year-old retires after 87 AFL games, 61 of them for the Swans including the 2016 AFL Grand Final, and will transition into a development coaching role.
Laidler said that the timing is right for him to make a change.
“Coming into the AFL system I wasn’t sure if my career would last two years – so I feel really fortunate to have played for 10. Although it was a rollercoaster along the way I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at all three clubs,” Laidler said.
“This year I did some work with the QBE Sydney Swans Academy and I loved my time there, so to be given this opportunity by the Swans I am very grateful and excited by the challenge.”
Sydney Swans Head of Football Tom Harley says that Jeremy Laidler has all the right attributes to make a smooth transition into coaching.
“I would like to welcome Jeremy to our coaching ranks,” Harley said.
“Jeremy has always displayed a tremendous work ethic and mature outlook, and we look forward to him continuing to work with our younger players.”
Jeremy was among the best players in the Swans' losing NEAFL Grand Final against the Brisbane Lions, and will be fondly remembered for his time with the Swans.
He exits the club along with fellow NEAFL Grand Final players Shaun Edwards, Michael Talia, Brandon Jack and Tyrone Leonardis.
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