Wilkins to hang up the boots

Norwood defender Mitch Wilkins has announced his retirement from SANFL football. 

Wilkins will play his last game for Norwood in Saturday’s SANFL match against Adelaide at Coopers Stadium.

He announced his retirement to the playing group at training on Tuesday evening.

“It’s my time, I have been sitting on the decision all year but made up my mind a couple of weeks ago,” Wilkins said.

“You get to a point in life with a young family and business to run, I am getting older and it’s my time to call it.

“It was a weight off my shoulders (telling the players), but also an emotional moment – the Norwood Football Club and footy have been a big part of my life for the last 10 years. It’s hard to say goodbye to something that’s been such a big part of my life.

“This football club feels like a second home.”

Wilkins has played 90 SANFL matches for the Redlegs in two stints (2015, and 2018-2023), while also spending time playing in Victoria.

He spent two seasons on North Melbourne’s AFL list after being selected with Pick 47 in the 2012 Draft.

Wilkins said one of his greatest memories in the red and blue was the 13-goal quarter at Unley Oval in 2018.

“When I look back, most Norwood fans would remember that game against Sturt,” he said.

“We were three goals down at three quarter time and kicked 13 in the last quarter to win by nine goals. It was a special and unique memory for me, and one of the most enjoyable quarters.

“I even jagged a sausage roll that day (one of seven career goals).”

Wilkins has played four League games this season amongst an injury interrupted campaign.

“I had a pretty average run with injury, and my finger injury this year was the tipping point for me – I couldn’t seem to catch a break,” he said.

Wilkins will retire following this Saturday’s Round 18 match against the Crows at Coopers Stadium, Norwood.

It will be a big day at The Parade with Fortis Match, Remembrance Round and Eyre Peninsula Round activities scheduled – learn more here.