GOLD Coast veteran Nick Holman has announced his retirement at the end of the campaign after an 11-season career at two clubs.

Initially drafted to Carlton in 2014, Holman played nine games for the Blues before being delisted after two seasons.

WHO'S CALLED IT QUITS 2026's retirements and delistings

After two years out of the AFL system, he was picked up as a rookie by the Suns in 2018.

He has gone on to play a further 144 games and kick 79 goals for the Suns, and will get a farewell game against St Kilda at Marvel Stadium on Thursday night.

Suns coach Damien Hardwick paid tribute to the 31-year-old's commitment and dedication to the club.

"You don't hope with Nick, you know exactly what you're going to get week in, week out," Hardwick said.

"That's why our club and our members and supporters love him so much. The way he attacks the ball, the way he gives 110 per cent for this club every time he takes the field, that's something we can lean into, and more importantly, bring to the game this week.

"He is the quintessential role player. He sets a standard for our football club and the challenge for our group now is understanding that his legacy is the standards that he leaves behind.

"He's been a remarkable servant of our football club and hopefully we get the opportunity to celebrate one final win for him on Thursday night."

Taken with pick No.51 in the 2013 draft, Holman was delisted by the Blues after two seasons, spending two years with Central District in the SANFL before getting his Suns chance.

He played 20-plus games in three different seasons for Gold Coast, kicking 16 goals in 2022.

"It's been a big couple of days with lots of emotions, but I'm proud of the fact I've given my all every day throughout the journey," Holman said.

"I want to thank both the Gold Coast Suns and Carlton football clubs for giving me the chance to live out a childhood dream. 

"To the Suns, thank you for taking the chance on me. I'm extremely grateful for this football club and I'd like to think I've repaid that faith as a player. This place is full of great people and it's been such an amazing place to come to work every day.

"My favourite part of playing AFL football has been being able to bring so many people along on the journey. Friends and family have travelled all across the country watching me play and having the opportunity to give back to those people who have given so much to me is the most rewarding part and my greatest achievement.

"I'll miss coming in here every day, it's been one hell of a ride.

"Now it's time for the next chapter and one I'm excited for. I leave this place knowing it's in great hands with a list full of youth, talent and hard work. It's a recipe for success and I'm looking forward to watching that unfold from the stands.

"Now, we've got one more job to get done on Thursday night."