Connor McLean hangs up the boots

After 17 seasons in the SANFL system (seniors and juniors), Norwood Premiership forward Connor McLean has decided that 2025 will be his last, announcing his retirement this week.

McLean played 79 League matches and kicked 105 goals, across a career with both Norwood and Central District, which started in the U13s with the Bulldogs.

After 30 League matches with Centrals, McLean headed to The Parade ahead of the 2022 season, where he was a valuable member of the SANFL Premiership winning side, playing 22 matches and kicking 34 goals.

He won the Redlegs leading goal kicker award in 2022 and 2023, but has struggled with injury across seasons 2024 and 2025, managing just 10 League matches across the last two seasons.

“Retiring, it’s a weird feeling, but I am so grateful for Norwood to give me the opportunity to play for such an amazing club,”  McLean said.

“The friendships and memories that I have made over the past four years will last me a lifetime. I feel good, and looking forward to the next chapter.

“I’ve been involved in the SANFL system for 17 years, starting when I was 12 and now I’m 29. It’s been an amazing journey, with a lot of highs and lows, but that Premiership in 2022 was something I will never forget.

“When I first got to Norwood, I knew the group was special, and I’m so thankful I could be a part of that amazing day. I have no doubt there’s more success coming.”

Norwood’s 2025 GM of Football (now CEO) Richard Kelly thanked McLean for his contribution to the club.

“Connor has been an outstanding member of the Senior Men’s playing squad over the past four seasons,” he said.

“He was a crucial member of that 2022 Premiership side, and played his best football across 2022 and 2023. It’s a shame that he wasn’t able to get on the park consistently in the past couple of years through injury.

“We wish Connor every success with his next chapter, and we hope to see him around Coopers Stadium next season.”