Axed Aussie Rules Star Announces Retirement

Beloved Blue to call time at season’s end

Ed Curnow announces retirement

Carlton’s veteran midfielder, Ed Curnow, has announced that the 2023 AFL season will be his last. After a remarkable career spanning over a decade, Curnow will retire at the end of the campaign. The 33-year-old has played 221 AFL games, all for the Blues, since being drafted by the club in 2010.

Originally drafted as a rookie by Adelaide, Curnow joined Carlton in the same year and made his AFL debut in 2011. Throughout his career, he has established himself as a reliable tagger and a strong ball-winner. Curnow’s contributions to the team have been recognized with several accolades, including winning the Best Clubman Award in his debut season in 2011, as well as in 2016 and 2019.

An integral part of the Carlton family

Curnow’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Blues. His dedication, work ethic, and commitment to the team have made him a beloved figure within the club and the wider AFL community. The respect and admiration he commands are evident in the words of Carlton coach Michael Voss, who described Ed Curnow as the epitome of what a footy club needs.

“Footy clubs are built around good people like Ed Curnow,” Voss said. “Ed is highly regarded within these four walls, has held a special place in Carlton hearts for over a decade, and deservingly so. He is someone that gives his all every game, won’t rest until he’s won that contest, with a hunger and desire to finish every game as strong as he started.”

Curnow’s impact extends beyond the field as well. As a Carlton person through and through, he has been an influential figure in the club’s culture and has provided crucial experience and guidance to the playing group. Curnow’s influence during both the highs and lows of Carlton’s journey over the years cannot be underestimated.

Referred to as a Carlton family, the Curnows have made a lasting legacy within the club. Ed Curnow’s contributions, alongside those of his brother Charlie, who is also a vital member of the Blues’ playing list, have left an indelible mark on Carlton. The bond between the Curnow brothers and the club has been a source of pride and inspiration for the Carlton faithful.

A farewell in the finals?

As the 2023 AFL season nears its conclusion, Carlton supporters would undoubtedly hope to see Ed Curnow finish his career on a high note. Although he was not selected for the Blues’ most recent match, there is still a glimmer of hope that he may force his way back into the senior side for Carlton’s first finals campaign in a decade.

For Curnow, it would be a fitting end to a remarkable career if he could help lead the Blues to success in the finals. His leadership on and off the field, combined with his unwavering commitment to the team, makes him a valuable asset in high-pressure situations. Carlton fans will be eagerly awaiting the team’s fate in the finals and hoping for Curnow to have the send-off he deserves.

Farewell, Ed Curnow

As Ed Curnow prepares to hang up his boots at the end of the season, it is important to reflect on the impact he has had on Australian Rules Football and the Carlton Football Club. His determination, resilience, and love for the game have made him a role model for aspiring athletes.

Curnow’s career highlights the values and virtues that are so often celebrated in Australian sport—hard work, loyalty, and a never-give-up attitude. His consistent performances on the field, coupled with his professionalism off it, have earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.

As the Blues bid farewell to a true club legend, it is imperative to appreciate the lasting impact that Ed Curnow has had on the broader AFL community. His retirement marks the end of an era but also serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit that characterizes Australian Rules Football.

In an era where change and transitions are inevitable, Ed Curnow’s retirement offers an opportunity for the younger generation of players to carry the torch and build on his legacy. The resilience and work ethic exemplified by Curnow should serve as a reminder that success is achieved through dedication, teamwork, and a never-ending thirst for improvement.

As the curtain falls on Ed Curnow’s illustrious career, the AFL community will undoubtedly join together to celebrate the lasting impact he has had on the game. His retirement provides the perfect occasion to reflect on the value of sportsmanship, leadership, and the unwavering commitment to a club’s cause.

Ed Curnow will forever remain a beloved figure within the Carlton Football Club and the wider AFL community. His contributions, both on and off the field, will be remembered and cherished for years to come. As one chapter ends for Ed Curnow, another chapter begins for Carlton and the sport he has dedicated his life to.