Troy West Retires

[Dale61]

Williamstown's games record holder, Troy West, has retired from football. Troy's retirement was instigated by an injury which was likely to sideline him from the round 7 clash against Port Melbourne.

Troy sustained the injury during the win against the Bendigo Bombers and informed Coach Brad Gotch of his decision last Wednesday. His decision was announced to the playing group at training on the Friday, with the public informed on Saturday during the game against Port Melbourne.

Troy spoke of his passion for the Club and his beloved number 8 jumper. He said that after 208 games, a premiership in 2003 and captaining the Club, all that was left was to accumulate more games and that he would rather give that opportunity to a young key position player.

In round 4 Troy broke Williamstown's long standing games record. The previous record was Ray Smith's 205 games during the 1950's and 60's. Other Seagull's to have played 200 plus games are Saade Ghazi with 204 and Tom Russell with 200.

Troy will concentrate on his coaching duties with the Seagull's in developing the Club's young key defenders.

Games: 208
Goals: 22
Captain: 2000 - 2004
Premierships: 2003
VFL Representative: Twice - 1998 and 1999
Ron James Memorial Winner: 1994, 98 and 99

http://williamstown.footballvictoria.co ... &aid=94903

[Johnson#26]

Terrific career. Always a dependable backman. Well done, and fairwell.

[Cannibal]

Terrific player, ditto record and I'm glad he managed a premiership. So many play without ever achieving this. Good luck in coaching, Troy.