ESSENDON coach Matthew Knights believes the retiring Scott Lucas will not only go down in history as a club champion, but one of the greats of the game.

A former Tiger, Knights played against Lucas from 1996 to 2002 and said his outgoing forward would be remembered for his impressive goalkicking and high-soaring feats.

"He's just a thorough professional and a very humble man, a great family man. He's obviously given his family a lot of joy and the Essendon supporters a lot of joy over a long period," Knights said from Lucas' announcement at Windy Hill on Tuesday.

"Some of things he did on the football field, whether it be landing a goal from 60 or 70 metres out that would put the opposition to the sword, or taking marks inside 50.

"There's no question he is one of the greats of the game, and one of the greats of Essendon."

Knights was particularly impressed with Lucas' attitude when he told him was being dropped from the senior side after round six this year.

Lucas earned an AFL recall for round 11 and kicked 16 goals in a five-week form return.

"I'm very proud of the way he went back and played in the VFL with 'Hick' (Bendigo coach Adrian Hickmott) and the young boys," Knights said.

"I really just admired the way he went about it. He was still here every Wednesday, kicking goals the same way he prepared as he would prepare five years ago.

"I've got nothing but high praise for Scott and his whole career, and also the way he's handled the year and handled today."

Knights said it was that sort of professionalism that would ensure Lucas' lasting legacy at Essendon.

"He's a very mature man; he's always been there to guide and help younger people,"
 he said.

"I think our players should take a lot out of what Scott Lucas did in his career with his professionalism and the way he attacked training and his game.

"I hope the young players do take a lot out of Scott, and our veterans that are still at the club."