DUAL-premiership player Mathew Stokes has called time on his 10-year career after choosing not to play on at a second club in 2016.
The 30-year-old wasn't offered a contract for next season by the Cats but was open to offers from other clubs if they were good enough to "twist his arm" into playing on.
No offer could do so, and instead he will finish as a one-club player on 189 games, having played a key role in the club's 2007 and 2011 premierships.
He missed the 2009 flag after sitting out the preliminary final with groin soreness and failing to win his place back.
The midfielder, who started his career as a small forward, is expected to now move into a leadership role in the indigenous community, either through the AFL or government.
One of the Cats' stars in 2014, he suffered an Achilles injury early in 2015 and spent time in the VFL, returning for a farewell match in round 23.
He kicked 202 goals in his career and was fortunate enough to play in 142 wins. He will end his time at the Cats with a 76 per cent winning record.
"I got overlooked in the draft three times and Stephen Wells (club recruiting manager) and the Cats were the only ones that wanted to take a chance on me," Stokes said after leaving the Cats.
"I am grateful for being part of this great club that has really changed my life.
"My goal was to play one game and to have been here for a decade and to take away so many great friendships and relationships is the most important thing, even more than the wins and premierships."
Mathew Stokes celebrates the 2011 Grand Final with fans. Picture: AFL Media
Josh Kelly, Steve Johnson, and Mathew Stokes say goodbye to Geelong fans in 2015. Picture: AFL Media
Singing the song with Steve Motlop and Stevie J in 2012. Picture: AFL Media
Mathew Stokes enjoying training in 2011. Picture: AFL Media
