Sam Docherty will call time on his AFL journey this Thursday night, bringing down the curtain on a remarkable 14-year career when Carlton face Hawthorn under the lights.
The 31-year-old informed teammates of his decision on Tuesday, setting the stage for an emotional farewell at the MCG.
A former co-captain of the Blues and one of the most admired figures in the game, Docherty’s retirement marks the end of a story defined as much by resilience as it was by football.
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From multiple ACL setbacks to battling cancer twice, the defender’s path has been far from smooth. But his impact, both on and off the field, has been profound.
A career beyond the numbers
Docherty will retire after 184 senior appearances, a best-and-fairest medal in 2016, and an All-Australian nod a year later. Yet, for him, it’s never been just about the stats.
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“When my career started, I thought a footballer had to define themselves by the accolades they achieved: while I am certainly grateful for those that have come my way, I will leave this game with so much more,” Docherty said.
“The experiences I have had not just in my football career, but in life, have moved the goal posts for me – while there has been no shortage of challenges, because of what I have been through I have been allowed to meet so many amazing people and have had the opportunity to have an impact far greater than kicking or handballing a football ever could.”