Saints loyal servant hangs up the boots

Austinn Jones informed St Kilda last night that he would be retiring from the AFL football.

Aussie arrived at the club in 1995 and has since gone onto play 226 games and has been a loyal servant over the past 10 years.

He has been an extremely consistent performer over the years for the club, playing most of his footy in the half back flank and as an attacking defender.

Aussie Jones said of his retirement, “Football and the St Kilda Football Club have given me plenty of opportunities which I have been grateful for. I have not come to this decision lightly but I know that it is the correct one.

“I would like to thank the club, my team mates, coaches and support staff for all their support over the years. I would like to thank my family and especially my wife, with whom I am looking forward to spending the next phase of my life with."

Senior Coach, Grant Thomas said, "This is another reminder how tough and brutally competitive AFL has become and it’s getting tougher. Aussie has been a terrific servant that has performed at the highest level being a dual All Australian and 200 game player. He also understands what this Club is on about, and has selflessly put that before personal gain.

“I know his team mates will greatly respect what he is doing. He knows the time is right and feels good about the decision. I think the club has taught Aus a lot about life and he will be successful at whatever he goes on to do.”

Chief Executive Officer Jim Watts also acknowledge Aussie’s tremendous contribution to the club, "The manner in which Aussie Jones has handled his retirement speaks volumes for his character and dedication to his team mates.

“The St Kilda Football Club would like to recognise Aussie's contribution to the club over many years of selfless service. We are proud that the boy who entered our Club at the tender age of 17 has become a man of such strong values.

“Aussie is a credit to himself, his family, and our football club and we wish him well for his future."

Career Stats

Selected at No.48 in the 1994 National AFL Draft
Recruited from: Beaconsfield/Southern U18
AFL/SKFC debut: 1995
Date of Birth: 28 September, 1976
Height: 176cm
Weight: 80kg
Games: 226
Goals: 127

Playing honours

- All Australian, 1997, 2004.
- International Rules Series, 2004.
- Rising Star nominee, 1995.
- Pre-season Premiership sides 1996, 2004.