North ruckman Good as Goldy to depart Roos after 315 games
Todd Goldstein has informed North Melbourne that he has played his final match for the club.
Todd Goldstein, a veteran North Melbourne ruckman, will leave the Kangaroos in order to continue playing regular AFL footy at another club.
If Goldstein stayed at Arden Street next year, his senior playing possibilities would be severely limited, with Tristan Xerri, who played the final eight games of the season, poised to be first-choice ruckman.
After being dropped in round one, the 35-year-old was given a reprieve after Xerri, 24, was hurt in the season opener.
Goldstein, who has played 315 games and scored 157 goals for North since his debut in 2008, including winning their best and fairest in his All-Australian 2015 season, has yet to commit to a club.
Goldstein, being an unrestricted free agent, is not need to be traded to reach his desired club.
“It’s been a really tough decision,” Goldstein said in a statement.
“I’ve been talking with my manager and my family about what’s best for us moving forward… and I think it’s going to be looking for other opportunities elsewhere.”
“It’s probably time for the club to have a clean break and give Tristan the opportunity to shine in the number one ruck role.”
Goldstein’s retirement follows that of veterans Ben Cunnington, Jack Ziebell, and Aaron Hall.
“Goldy has been a loyal and decorated servant of the club, so it’s naturally sad to see him go,” said North Melbourne football manager Todd Viney.
“It’s a credit to him that he has been able to play over 300 games at the one club and it’ll be strange to see him in different colours.”
