After gracing the game’s biggest stage for more than a decade, Adam Cooney, has announced his thirteenth season will be his last.
Cooney’s decision to hang up the boots fittingly coincides with his 250 game milestone against former Club, the Western Bulldogs, at Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The 30-year old said he was proud of his achievements over the journey, including a standout season in 2008 which saw him crowned the league’s Brownlow Medallist and All-Australian selection.
“I feel very fortunate to have been able to play the game I love at the highest level, and I’ve made plenty of great mates along the way,” Cooney said.
“After many tough pre-seasons, gruelling training sessions, a few injuries and plenty of wonderful memories, I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life.
“I’d like to thank my incredible wife, Haylea, and my kids Ash, Jax and Evie, for their enduring support over the years.”
Cooney joined the Bombers from the Bulldogs ahead of the 2015 season and said his time at Tullamarine had revitalised his love for the game.
“When I left the Bulldogs I was looking for a change in my career and an opportunity to develop in a new environment.
“The Essendon Football Club has given me that with first-class facilities, a great culture of leadership and great team mates who I have continued to learn a lot from.
“It seems a fitting tribute to be able to play against the Dogs this week to celebrate not only my 250 game milestone but also celebrate the career I have enjoyed at both Clubs.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to also say thank you to the fans from both Clubs who have showed me enormous support throughout my career.”
Senior Coach, John Worfold, says Cooney has made a significant contribution to the culture and future development of the Club’s playing list.
“Adam has had an incredible career, he’s achieved some of the games highest accolades including a Brownlow Medal and All-Australian selection, and the way he worked his way back after some serious injuries has been a highlight for me,” Worsfold said.
“In a year where we needed people to help guide our young list, Adam’s experience, leadership and team care has been really vital, and he also brings a lighter mood to the group which has been particularly important at times this year.
“We wish Adam and his family all the best for the future and I’d encourage Essendon and Bulldog supporters to get along Sunday to pay tribute to his impressive career.”
General Manager of Football, Rob Kerr, thanked the versatile veteran for his outstanding services to the Essendon Football Club over the past two seasons.
“Adam has been a wonderful contributor to our football club since he first arrived last year,” Kerr said.
“There’s no doubt Adam was challenged by injuries in his first year at the Club, but he always put the team’s needs first and has continued to play his role as an experienced leader for our younger players.
“Adam is a highly-regarded and valued member of our playing group for his enthusiasm and experience.
“We are proud to have seen him ‘Don the Sash’ with the Bombers, and on behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, we wish Adam, his wife Haylea and children Ash, Jax and Evie every success for the future.
Adam Cooney Stats
DOB: 30 September 1985
Draft history: Pick No.1, 2003 National Draft
AFL Debut: Round 1, 2004 against West Coast at Etihad Stadium
Bombers Debut: Round 1, 2015 against Sydney at ANZ Stadium
AFL Games: 249* (250 Game Milestone Round 22, 2016)
Brownlow Medal: 2008
All Australian: 2008
