AFTER 142 games for North Melbourne and 50 for Fremantle, Jess Sinclair has announced his retirement.

Sinclair broke the news to teammates on Wednesday, little more than two weeks after teammate and good friend Shannon Grant confirmed that this season would be his last.

After playing every game in 2007, a terrific campaign spent mostly at half-back, Sinclair's start to this year was ruined by a broken thumb sustained in the pre-season competition.

He returned for the round six draw with the Sydney Swans, but suffered an ankle injury in the VFL in the weeks that followed – adding to those frustrations.

Five of his six games for 2008 were played in the last six rounds – including Saturday night's elimination final loss to the Sydney Swans.

After the defeat, Sinclair was visibly upset as the Roos came to terms with their season ending.

Sinclair joined North Melbourne from Fremantle at the end of 2000 in a trade for dual premiership player Peter Bell, who returned to his original club after 123 games.

Ironically, some of Sinclair's better performances came against Fremantle, averaging more than 21 disposals in seven matches against them.

The 30-year-old said his time with the Roos had meant a great deal to him, and that he was keen to remain involved in football.

"I would like to thank the North Melbourne Football Club for the opportunities I have been given over the past eight years," he said in a statement released by the club.

"The club has been very supportive through my career, it has been like a second family.

"I wish all of the players, coaches and staff all the very best and look forward to watching the group achieve success in the future.

"Football is what I know and what I love. I think I've got plenty to offer and plan to stay involved in the game in some capacity."

Chief of football Donald McDonald also paid tribute to Sinclair and his contribution to the club.

"Jess has been a good player for us over a long period of time, which is testament to his commitment and work ethic," he said.

"He is renowned as one of the hardest trainers at the club. His professionalism set a great example to those around him, particularly the younger members of our list.

"Jess should be extremely proud of what he has achieved on and off the field. He has been a respected and popular teammate and a valued member of the North Melbourne Football Club.

"We will support him fully as he makes the transition to life after football."

Sinclair will finish the season with the club's VFL affiliate Werribee, which has a place in the finals.