Journeyman Bombers ruckman Andrew Phillips has called time on his AFL career after 12 seasons across three clubs.
The GWS foundation player will retire at the season’s end, with a desire to move back to his home state Tasmania with his family after more than a decade living interstate.
The departure of Phillips, 32, may give the Bombers a better opportunity to secure uncontracted young gun Nick Bryan on a new deal, with the former second round selection frustrated by a lack of opportunities over the last two seasons.
Phillips has enjoyed a career-best season, playing 17 games and averaging 22 hit-outs as he formed an influential early-season partnership with Sam Draper, who has missed several weeks with a hip injury.
The Lauderdale ruckman, who was taken through the rookie draft by the Giants the season before they entered the AFL, has only played 79 games over 12 seasons but has long been recognised as a reliable option since a breakout campaign in 2016, his first season with the Blues.
Since joining the Bombers at the end of 2019, Phillips has played 38 games over four seasons.
“I’ve been privileged to represent three great football clubs over the journey and I’ll always have a soft spot for the club.
I’ve loved my past four years here and it’s the people here who have made my time in the red and black so enjoyable,” Phillips said.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realised that the most enjoyment you get out of football is working with your teammates and seeing them flourish.
To be able to play alongside and guide my fellow rucks has been crucial to me enjoying my footy and I can’t wait to see what they achieve in their careers.
