Parker calls it a day
- Tuesday, 21 January 2014
One of the most decorated WAFL careers in recent times came to an end yesterday when Subiaco captain Aidan Parker informed teammates and club officials of his decision to hang up the boots.
An increase in work commitments has made it impossible for the three-time premiership star to continue playing for the club at which he debuted as an 18-year-old 13 seasons ago.
“My first memories are that I instantly loved the place, I came through the juniors and I became very passionate about Subi very quickly.” Parker said.
Parker’s debut season saw him play 16 games followed by 20 the following year before the Adelaide Crows rookie listed the key defender.
After two seasons and 38 games in the SANFL Parker returned home in 2005 and bolstered an already star-studded Subiaco team that was on the brink of an historic hat-trick of premierships.
“Three premierships, it was unbelievable… I’ll always look back on those as the best days of my life, it was an incredible time and something that I’m extremely proud of to be involved with a group of boys that were so successful and worked so hard for what we achieved.” He said.
After 232 games for Subiaco (plus 38 in the SANFL) the man famous for his non conventional running style hasn’t ruled out involving himself in some sort of coaching role.
“I’m forcing my self to stay away from the club for a couple of months but certainly down the track I’d love to stay involved as an assistant or an assistant to an a assistant so I can pass on some of my experience.” Parker said.
“Being around the boys, that’s what I’ll miss, I remember some of the legends I’ve played with and by the end of their career they were sick of training but for what ever reason I still just absolutely loved going to training every night.” He said.
Parker’s legacy
“He’ll go down as one of the most respected and professional footballers to walk through the door at this club. His passion and dedication to lead us in the right direction on and off the field will be impossible to replace.” Jarrad Schofield, coach
“He’s a bloke who loved the club more than anyone I’ve played with and who was certainly the heart beat of the playing group.” - Darren Rumble, teammate
“Parksy’s a guy with terrific leadership qualities, a very marketable face of the club, who always had an interest in Subiaco’s future. He’s just your classic clubman.” - Peter Capes, Subiaco CEO
“I just want to be remembered as some one who always did all the training and always tried his best, it was pretty ugly to watch at times (laughs) but I think I always tried my best and I hope I’m remembered as some one who absolutely loved the footy club above everything else.” - Aidan Parker
Career at a glance
275 games (231 WAFL, 38 SANFL, 5 WA, 1 National)
2006, 2007 & 2008 premierships
Subiaco Captain 2009- 2013
Subiaco Best and Fairest 2012
6 time WA State representative
Subiaco Football Club Team of the Decade
WAFL top 25 players in the past 25 years
Pick 45 in the 2003 AFL rookie draft (Adelaide Crows)
