AFL games record holder Brent Harvey announces retirement

North Melbourne club legend Brent Harvey has announced his retirement from football.

The 38-year-old AFL games record holder was dropped by his beloved Kangaroos at the end of the 2016 season but is said to have been open to offers from other clubs.

At North Melbourne’s awards night on Friday, the man known as ‘Boomer’ announced his retirement after 432 games.

“I have been struggling with this decision since the day we were beaten by the Crows. I think my leg is good enough to continue…but I would like to tell everyone in this room tonight my decision not to give up on another team. the jump is why I would like to announce my retirement from AFL football,” he told those gathered at the Syd Barker Medal night.

“I hope one day the Harvey name (at North Melbourne) will live on through my children.

“I look forward to bringing my family down to see the boys do it every week.”

Harvey said he held no hard feelings against the club after being axed alongside fellow veterans Michael Firrito, Drew Petrie and Nick Dal Santo.

“A lot of people think I’m angry at the club. I’m not,” he said.

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“To the members who said they won’t re-sign… (after Boomer’s removal) remember the Shinboner Spirit.

“Our club needs your support more than ever.”

Harvey was taken by the Kangas with the 47th pick in the 1995 national draft.

The 167cm midfielder won the premiership with the club in 1999 and ended his career a five-time Syd Barker medalist and four-time All Australian.