Essendon champion Dyson Heppell has announced his retirement from the AFL after a stellar 14-year career, leaving an indelible mark on the game and the Bombers’ history.
Heppell Calls Time on Stellar AFL Career
After recently becoming the 15th player in club history to play 250 games, Dyson Heppell has called time on his illustrious 14-year AFL career with Essendon. The 32-year-old leaves the game as one of the most universally loved and respected players, having secured prestigious accolades like an All-Australian selection, the AFL Rising Star award, and Essendon’s Crichton Medal. 
Essendon Champion Reflects on Retirement Decision
Reflecting on his decision, Heppell expressed pride in giving his all throughout his AFL journey. ‘At the season’s end, I’ll be hanging up the boots,’ he said. ‘I’ve been wrestling with the decision for weeks, but it’s one I’m super content with. In my mind, I always wanted to call it a day while still playing decent footy. If it got to a point where other boys were primed for my role, I knew it was time.’ Heppell acknowledged the competitive voice urging him to play on but felt retiring on his own terms was the right call. 
Heppell’s Illustrious Career Achievements
Heppell’s second year with the Bombers proved he was a special talent, claiming the AFLCA’s Best Young Player Award and finishing runner-up in Essendon’s Crichton Medal count. In 2014, he soared to new heights, earning an All-Australian selection and winning the Crichton Medal. His leadership was pivotal during challenging times, serving as Essendon’s captain from 2017 to 2022 and guiding the club’s rebuild. Heppell’s impact extended beyond the field, fostering a special bond with Scleroderma patient Harrison Pennicott and championing children battling serious illnesses. 
Tributes Flow for Essendon Great
Essendon President Dave Barham paid tribute to the widely regarded figure, stating, ‘He is an Essendon person through and through and has committed his adult life to this football club, our people, and all our members and supporters. He leaves an incredible legacy, and we are indebted to him for his strength, resilience, and leadership. The No.21 at Essendon will be synonymous with Dyson Heppell.’ CEO Craig Vozzo echoed similar sentiments, admiring Heppell’s on-field exploits and the respect he commands across the AFL community due to his unique character. 
Heppell’s Impact Beyond the Field
While Heppell’s individual accolades on the field were building, it was his off-field actions that elevated his standing at Essendon to new heights. A pillar of strength and loyalty during one of the club’s darkest periods, Heppell fostered a special relationship with Scleroderma patient Harrison Pennicott, exemplifying his giving nature and championing children battling serious illnesses. His leadership during challenging times was pivotal to the growth and stability of Essendon’s playing group. 
Reaching the 250-Game Milestone
In the latter stages of his career, Heppell reached the significant 250-game milestone in round 16 against Geelong, cementing his status as one of Essendon’s most beloved players. His 107 games as captain are highly regarded internally, guiding the club through some of its most challenging periods. Heppell’s journey to 250 games encapsulated his resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Bombers. 
No Guarantee of Farewell Game
Despite announcing his retirement, there is no guarantee Heppell will have a farewell game as the Bombers eye a finals berth. The 32-year-old has been informed that a swan song appearance is not assured, with the club’s focus firmly on securing a coveted spot in the finals series. Regardless, Heppell’s legacy as an Essendon great is already etched in the club’s history, leaving an indelible mark on and off the field. 
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