Geelong 2022 premiership star Zach Tuohy announces his AFL retirement

Another of Geelong’s 2022 premiership stars has confirmed he will hang up the boots at the end of the season. The club pays tribute to what he has brought in an “incredible journey”.

Zach Tuohy has announced his retirement. Photo: Michael Willson/AFL Photos)

One of Geelong’s most popular players of the modern era is hanging up the boots.

Irishman Zach Tuohy has announced he will retire at the end of the season as he dreams of going out with a second premiership.

The 34-year-old has played the most games of any Irish-born footballer after he first was recruited out of Portlaoise in County Laois in 2010 joining Carlton.

He would eventually make his way to the Cats via a trade before the 2017 season.

Alongside Cats teammate Mark O’Connor he is just one of three people from his homeland to win an AFL premiership following Tadhg Kennelly in 2005.

Cats fans will be able to farewell Tuohy at the final home game of the season at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday against West Coast.

“While there is a lot of footy left to play this year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you all the members and fans for their support,” Tuohy said.

“I knew when I came to the Cats I was in for a treat, and I didn’t think I fully appreciated just how incredible the journey would be.”

Geelong’s general manager of football Andrew Mackie celebrated Tuohy’s accomplishments and career.

“Zach has been a skilful, durable and flexible player across his eight seasons in the Hoops,” Mackie said.

“He will depart as the Irish games record holder, which is a remarkable achievement for someone who made the decision 15 years ago to leave home to travel across the world to play our game.

“He is a loved and respected teammate and has contributed greatly to the environment of our club.

“We thank Zach, his wife Rebecca and children Flynn and Rafferty for their contribution to our club.”

Tuohy’s ability to perfect the torpedo, his iconic moustache and fan favourite Reggie wave post-win to the Reg Hickey Stand have made him popular among the Cats’ faithful.

Tuohy is the second Cat to confirm their retirement at the end of the season alongside Tom Hawkins.

Originally published as Geelong 2022 premiership star Zach Tuohy announces his AFL retirement