In a heartfelt announcement, 32-year-old ruckman Sam Naismith has decided to retire from professional football, following a challenging season marred by yet another severe injury. Naismith’s career has been defined by both potential and adversity, with a series of injuries affecting his time on the field.
Naismith, who spent a decade at Sydney, played just 30 AFL games due to persistent injury problems before being delisted at the end of 2022. Despite his setbacks, he found a new lease on his football life with Port Melbourne in the VFL last year, showcasing his skills and earning a chance with Richmond for the 2024 season. Richmond brought him on board as a backup ruckman to Toby Nankervis, his former teammate from the Swans.
However, the 2024 season took a turn for the worse when Naismith ruptured his ACL again during a VFL match in May, cutting his season short and ultimately leading to his decision to retire. Naismith had managed to play three senior games before the injury, and despite the brief stint, he reflected on his time with the Tigers with gratitude and fulfillment.
In an emotional message to his Richmond teammates, Naismith expressed his appreciation for the support he received throughout his time at the club. “After this year, I’m going to be hanging them up,” he shared with his team. “I have only been here at Richmond for such a short time, but this has been the best year of my football career.”
Naismith praised the Richmond group, highlighting how the experience with the club had been one of the most rewarding of his career. “I have enjoyed so much about this group here and how it has made me feel. It has been one of the most fulfilling and rewarding opportunities to come in here and work with you guys and represent the club, and be able to come back and actually play AFL footy again.”
He continued, “It is probably something that when I was at my lowest of lows, that I did not really think was achievable. Coming in here and being supported by this group, it is a pretty special place.”
As he steps away from the game, Naismith leaves behind a legacy of resilience and determination, demonstrating an enduring passion for the sport despite the physical challenges he faced.