West Coast premiership hero Jamie Cripps has ended his AFL career following a serious knee injury sustained in the WAFL in May. The 32-year-old announced his retirement to teammates on Tuesday afternoon, bringing a close to a 16-season, 261-game journey that included the Eagles' 2018 premiership triumph.
A Career Cut Short by Injury
Cripps suffered the knee injury while playing for West Coast's WAFL affiliate, and after months of rehabilitation, he has decided to hang up the boots. The decision marks a sad end to an impressive career that began at St Kilda in 2010 before he joined West Coast in 2013.
“I would like to just thank the club, it’s been an awesome 14 years and a privilege to play for a great club like West Coast,” Cripps said. “To play so long and play with some amazing players along the way as well, it’s just been such a fun ride.”
Family and Legacy
Cripps credited his family for his success, saying, “My family make me tick and they’re who I do it for, so to have their support over the years has been massive. Now I’m ready for my knee to start feeling better so I can run around with the kids and see what their journey might be, which I’m looking forward to.”
He finishes his West Coast career with 323 goals, the sixth-most in the club's history, and is the Eagles' all-time leader for goal assists with 188.
Club Tributes
West Coast football manager Gavin Bell praised Cripps' contributions. “He gave everything to his craft, consistently putting the team first and challenging those around him to do the same,” Bell said. “Off the field, he is humble and deeply respected. On game day, he competed with a fierce edge and total commitment to the role.”
Bell added, “We are incredibly grateful for what Jamie has given to this Club and the example he has set for others to follow. He should be immensely proud of the career he’s built. Jamie, Liv, Reif, Lance and Hazel will always be part of our Club – that connection doesn’t end here. We wish them every success in the next chapter.”
