Veteran Essendon ruckman Steven Alessio today announced his retirement from AFL football. Alessio played 16 games for Essendon in 2003 bringing his career total to 184. Together with his 18 pre-season games, he retires as a member of the AFL’s 200 Club.

Alessio was a member of Essendon’s 2000 Premiership side and the pre-season Premiership sides of 1993 and 2000. He was named the Bombers’ Best Finals Player in 2001. His contribution off the ground during his 12 years at the club was outstanding. He was named Essendon’s Best Clubman on three occasions - 1995, 1999 and 2001.

“Steven has not only been a great servant of this club on the field but also a terrific person off the field. Good clubs need good people and Steven Alessio is such a person,” Essendon chief executive Peter Jackson said.

“But his on-field deeds should not be under-estimated. He played in a Premiership side in 2000 and in 2001 was he named our Best Finals' Player so he has done the job in big games.

“On behalf of the club and our members and supporters I sincerely thank him for everything he has given Essendon Football Club. We look forward to still seeing him around the place from time to time and wish him all the best in his retirement.""