Bode calls time

NORWOOD Skipper and Triple Premiership Player Jace Bode has announced his retirement after an illustrious nine-year career in the Red and Blue.

A popular and respected member of Norwood’s playing group, Bode has played 195 SANFL games in a career highlighted by his work ethic and team-first approach.

After returning to his junior club Sturt in 2009 after three years on Melbourne’s list, Bode switched to the Parade on the eve of the 2011 SANFL Season.

Bode made his debut against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium in 2011 playing 22 games in his debut season at the Parade.

He played 173 games over the following eight seasons and emerged as one of the competition’s premier small defenders.

Bode was an integral part of Norwood’s three-peat of flags from 2012-14 and developed as a selfless leader who would do whatever he could for his team.

Elected Co-Captain of the Norwood Football Club along with fellow defender Alex Georgiou in 2016, Bode then took the reigns as solo captain in 2017.

Bode led the club to three finals campaigns, including the 2018 Grand Final in which Norwood came runner-up to North Adelaide.

On reflection, Bode’s best memories from his time at Norwood were the three Premierships, as well as the relationships he has made with teammates, coaches and staff.

“I think being fortunate enough to play in three Premierships was a highlight, the 2014 flag after the players that we had lost in 2013, a change in Coach and versing a pretty good team with a lot of AFL talent was probably the career highlight,” said Bode.

“What I will miss most is the locker room chat and just being part of a club.

“It was an absolute honour to Captain this club – it’s something that I am extremely proud of and something my family is also very proud of.

“I treasured the responsibility, and hope I emulated my previous Captains in Muff (Kieran McGuiness) and Gags (James Gallagher) footsteps.”

Although having achieved a number of feats over his career, Bode wanted the opportunity to thank those around him who have supported him over his years at the Parade.

“I’d like to thank all my teammates, the coaches and the Norwood family,” said Bode.

“I’m really grateful for everyone that’s contributed to this success and the on-going running of the club.

“I’d like to thank all the fans, the best place to be on a Friday night is running out in front of a packed Coopers Stadium – I’ll be forever grateful for the support they have given me.

“To obviously my family, my wife Nat and kids allowing me to give up so much time for the club I love.

“I’m not sure what my future holds, but I’m excited to explore footy development and coaching opportunities and look forward to having a drink with all our members in the Wolf Blass Community Centre in 2020.”

The Norwood Football Club would like to thank Jace for his service to the club and wishes him, Nat, Maddie and Milla all the best for the next stage of their life.

Jace has penned a heartfelt letter to the fans of the Norwood Football Club which will be released in the coming days.

Career Stats:

Guernsey Number: 15

Career: 2011 to 2019

NFC Games: 195

NFC Goals: 20

Debut: v Port Adelaide (Football Park) 2nd April 2011

Finale: v Central (Norwood) 16th August 2019

Accolades:

Norwood Captain: 2016 – 2019

Premierships: 2012, 2013, 2014

Advertiser Team of the Year: 2012, 2014

South Australian Games: 2

VFL/AFL Clubs: Melbourne