Source :- THE AGE NEWS
The pair holds the AFL record for the most games played as teammates, currently sitting at 339.
Renowned for his silky skills on either side of his body, his game sense, and ability to stay calm under enormous pressure, Sidebottom had to reinvent himself several times over his career, starting as a flanker, moving into the midfield and then ending his career as a winger.
Throughout he kept a trademark smile on his face, the expression remaining even during the heat of battle.
He is a popular teammate and clubman and adored by Magpie supporters. He was admired if not loved by most supporters, a remarkable feat for a Collingwood player.
He was coached by Mick Malthouse, Nathan Buckley and Craig McRae and was club vice captain for eight seasons.
“As a young kid from ‘Tally’ [Tallygaroopna], I could never imagine I’d finish my AFL career with over 370 games, two premierships and 18 years of memories,” Sidebottom said.
“When I look back on my time at Collingwood, I’ll remember the people. So many teammates, coaches, staff and volunteers have invested their time and energy into helping me along the way. I’m grateful for every one of them.
“To the Magpie Army, playing in front of you is an incredible privilege – there is nothing like running out for a game knowing our fans are behind us. Your loyalty, passion and love for the black and white are what make Collingwood such a special place.
“I feel incredibly lucky to have spent my entire AFL career at Collingwood. Watching Matilda, Ned and Beau become part of the club has been one of the greatest joys of my career. We’ll always be grateful for the love and support we’ve received from the Collingwood community.”
McRae said Sidebottom’s contribution to Collingwood had been enormous.
“His consistency, professionalism and ability to perform under pressure have been remarkable throughout his career. But for me, his greatest strength is his character. He’s authentic, caring, humble and has a wonderful way of bringing people together. That’s why he’s so respected by everyone at our club,” McRae said.
With the Magpies certain to play finals it is unclear when Sidebottom’s final match will be.
At Richmond, Dion Prestia has joined premiership teammate Nathan Broad in ending his career at the Tigers, although Prestia is open to continuing his career at another AFL club – telling SEN he was still “leaving the door open a little bit”.
Starting his career at Gold Coast, Prestia enjoyed instant success after making the switch to the Tigers in 2017.
The midfielder played in three premierships (2017, 2019, 2020) in his first four seasons at Richmond.
Despite being riddled by injury in 2020 and restricted to just five games during the COVID-affected season, Prestia returned to play an important role in all four of the Tigers’ finals.
“I felt like a Richmond man from the very beginning,” Prestia said.
“My decision to come to Richmond was not to prove what I could do, but to be a part of a club that I saw potential for greatness, and didn’t we prove that right?
“This last 10 years has been everything that I ever dreamt of as a kid, kicking the footy in my front yard and imagining 90,000 fans screaming. Thank you, Tiger Army, for making this happen.”
Prestia and Broad will be given a farewell in front of the Richmond army this Saturday when the Tigers host St Kilda at the MCG.
