ADAM Simpson's very last training session was exactly what his 305-game career has been: understated but of very special significance to his teammates and supporters.

Simpson had asked for a low key approach ahead of his farewell match and there was a modest crowd at Arden Street on Thursday morning.

Chairman James Brayshaw was among onlookers as the squad took barely 30 minutes to polish their preparations for the clash with Carlton; one that means little for ladder position, but everything when honouring their champion.

"From my perspective, it's a privilege to have been able to coach him for the last few games of his career," caretaker coach and former teammate Darren Crocker said.

"I've obviously been associated with him for a long time so hopefully the boys can get all the motivation they need just from being part of his last game.

"He will go down as one of the greats of the club."

Allies and opponents share envy of Simpson's personal accolades – two premiership medals, a best and fairest award, All-Australian selection and five seasons as captain – but most understand that only a unique character could have a similar influence on this football club and its culture.

That aura was there again but, for once, a small part of 'Simpson the thinker' seemed to wrestle with the surreal.

An emotional week had brought his final press conference, his final weights session, his final team meeting and now his final hit-out.

He had led his teammates onto the track to staggered claps and cheers and for the best part of the session did little more than stretching and light skills, before chatting with Crocker and another mainstay of the side, Brady Rawlings.

It was also a session two of the club's younger players, Jack Ziebell and Ben Warren, decided they couldn't miss – walking the perimeter as they continue their recovery from injuries.

Soon Crocker called time and, as a huddle formed at the end of the old players' race, the hammering and chinking of work on the club's new facilities could have been suburbs away.

Somewhat reluctantly, Simpson took his place in the middle and with a gaze of acceptance, headed for the change-rooms knowing things would never be the same.

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL.