AFL Giants player, Luke Power, at Blacktown Sports Park, Sydney.4th April 2012Photo: Janie Barrett
GREATER Western Sydney Giants 2012 co-captain Luke Power (pictured) has called it quits after one year with the club.
Power joined the western Sydney outfit after 282 games at the Brisbane Lions and, at 32, provided some much needed experience in a side where the average age was about 21.
The 2012 season also saw the midfielder play his 300th AFL game.
The three-time premiership-winning player will move into a full-time coaching role with the Giants when he returns from holidays.
"I think it's the right time," he said.
"I was pretty happy with what we were able to achieve this year and the best thing for me is what is best for the group going forward.
"To get to 300 games was fantastic.
"I'm really proud of the past but I'm even more excited about the future.
"Under the tutelage of a lot of people this year I've learned a lot about the game, a lot about myself and about teaching young players.
"I'm looking forward to the next stage."
GWS chief executive David Matthew praised Power's contribution to the club.
"Luke is one of the most respected people in the game and has been a wonderful leader," he said.