Retired #8: Jason Winderlich

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Given the only report I've heard is from Mark Stevens, i'm yet to be convinced this is happening, but if it is, well done Windy on a great career. The portion he could control, he did brilliantly. Anyone remember that game a couple of years ago, versus Adelaide, where he was pretty much at full-forward and kicked 4 by half-time? Absolutely monstered his opponent. Was an incredible contested mark for a mid-size player.
 
Given the only report I've heard is from Mark Stevens, i'm yet to be convinced this is happening, but if it is, well done Windy on a great career. The portion he could control, he did brilliantly. Anyone remember that game a couple of years ago, versus Adelaide, where he was pretty much at full-forward and kicked 4 by half-time? Absolutely monstered his opponent. Was an incredible contested mark for a mid-size player.

...and then did his hammy. That game perfectly sums up his career unfortunately :( A very very good player ruined by injury.
 

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iirc he actually started up his own business not too long ago so this news isn't really that surprising.

What a great bloke/player he is. Can only wish that he holds a position of any capacity at the club in the future.
Yep, been giving tweting about it a lot recently

http://instagram.com/justeco_melbourne
 
They wouldn't publish unless they got some confirmation from the club wouldn't they?
After everything you have seen and read regarding EFC and ASADA, are you kidding? o_O

This is classic language used by communications specialists when they don't have confirmation:

The 29-year-old has battled serious injuries throughout his 12-season career at the club, but is understood to have told teammates of his decision to finish at the end of 2014.

I'm not having a go at you by the way when I ask if you're kidding...more at the media!

EDIT - I do not see a reason why however they would publish this story without some serious info...I seriously hope that info is wrong.
 

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Winderlich announces retirement
August 6, 2014 12:06 PM
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After calling Essendon Football Club home for more than a decade, Jason Winderlich has decided season 2014 will be his last in the red sash.

The country lad from Gippsland walked into Windy Hill in 2002 and leaves the True Value Solar Centre a respected, talented and extremely loyal teammate.

The 29 year-old announced to the players and coaches he will retire at seasons end.

“I’ve enjoyed every single minute during my time here at Essendon,” Winderlich said.

“To be drafted to the club you supported as a kid was a dream come true. I would have been honoured to play the one game, so to pull on the jumper for twelve years has been an absolute privilege.”

“I’m certainly going to miss the banter around the club and playing alongside a great group of blokes, but I’ve got a young family and I have to think about my long term future and I think it’s fair to say the body probably didn’t have another full pre-season in it.”

Jason was drafted from Gippsland U18, pick number 11 overall, at the 2002 National Draft. He made his debut the following season against Richmond in Round 7.

His lightning pace, defensive pressure and accurate kick for goal saw him carve out a successful career in the Bombers forward line. In his 123 games to date Jason has kicked 78 goals. Over the course of his career ‘Licka’ averages 15 disposals, 5 marks and 3 tackles per game.

Senior coach Mark Thompson led a chorus of praise for the veteran Bomber who has been a regular member of the club’s senior leadership group.

“For ‘Licka’ to carve out a career he did, with all the challenges he faced, really is an incredible achievement,” Thompson said.

“There’s always a sense of excitement whenever Licka has the ball in his hands. He’s a smart player and his blistering speed allowed him to change the momentum of a game.”

“Over the later part of his career he’s been a great leader and mentor for the younger players and he will be missed, there’s no doubt about that.”

Winderlich’s story is one of resilience and determination. A career plagued by serious injuries, ‘Licka’s’ ability to play more than 120 games for Essendon is a remarkable achievement.

“I’ve been through some tough times but those challenges made me the player I am.”

“There was obviously times when I thought my career was going to be cut short but the support of my teammates and people around the club like Doc Reid gave me the focus and encouragement to keep going.”

“This club not only helped me become a better player but over the journey I’ve made some great mates and its opened up a number of doors that will help me after footy.”

Club doctor Bruce Reid argues he’s spent more time with ‘Licka’ than his own children.

“He’s like one of my kids,” Reid said.

“You always develop a really strong bond with the players who spend time in rehab and he’s certainly spent his fair share of time in the rehab group.”

“Licka is a remarkably strong person, he overcame so many obstacles, he had back complications, knee reconstruction and multiple hamstrings and to play over a hundred games, I think, is a great testament to his resilience and determination.”

Jason has prepared himself well for the next phase of his life and is looking forward to devoting himself full time to his recycle timber business.

http://www.essendonfc.com.au/news/2014-08-06/winderlich-announces-retirement
 
What a shame, Always struck me as the kind of player that if given an injury free run would take us to the next level as a team. Unfortunately as has been the case so often for us over recent years our better players can't seem to stay fit, Really think he could have been anything.

Legend of bloke (met him a few times) and I'm sure has the best wishes of our entire supporter base as he bows out.
 
Thought Winders would go on another season - Close to an A grader,except for injuries. Confident that Gleeson can reach the same level or higher.
 

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Retired #8: Jason Winderlich

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