Werribee captain Nick Coughlan has called time on his Victorian Football League career.
Coughlan announced at the club’s recent best and fairest night that he had decided to call time on his VFL career after 106 games.
Coughlan played 80 games for Werribee after joining in 2018, but his journey began earlier than that, when he was drafted by St Kilda from Footscray with pick 23 in the 2015 rookie draft, spending two seasons on the Saints’ AFL list.
Announcing his retirement to Werribee players, staff, partners, and sponsors at the best-and-fairest night, Coughlan said the past seven years at the Tigers had been the most enjoyable years.
He spent two of those years as captain.
“To the Werribee Football Club: I came in 2018, recently delisted as a 20-year-old, not knowing what the hell I was gonna do… Ever since then, it’s just been the most enjoyable seven years.
“To all the coaches I’ve had over the time—Johnny Lamont, Mark Williams, Mick [Barlow], and Jimmy [Allan]—thank you so much for the faith you’ve shown in me.
“Especially Mick, coming on as captain last year, I loved our catch ups at the Bridge, not letting Mark know we were having a few beers, just talking about everything. And to Jimmy this year, from day one I knew you were the one who would lead us forward.”
Coughlan’s final appearance was in a round 16 against Coburg before injury hit again.
Despite missing the grand final, Allan invited Coughlan to join the team on stage to lift the cup.
Originally from Albury and part of Werribee’s strong Ovens and Murray contingent, Coughlan joined the club in 2018.
In 2023, Coughlan became the 34th player to captain Werribee, taking over from co-captains Dom Brew and Tom Gribble.
Speaking on the honour, Coughlan spoke highly of the club.
“From day one I have loved being at Werribee and all of the people past and present have been incredible to work with.”
“I’m very thankful for the trust shown in me by the players, Mick (coach Michael Barlow), Mark Penaluna (CEO) and Martin Carter (President) and the board to lead the club in 2023.
Coughlan celebrated his 100th VFL game in Round 1, a nine-goal victory over Geelong at GMHBA Stadium, where he was best on ground with 26 disposals and seven marks.
Despite dealing with injuries during his final season, he managed seven games, averaging a career-high 20 disposals to go with six marks per match.
“To the playing group, leading this club is the greatest honour I’ve ever had,” he said. “All I’ve ever wanted is success, and there’s been a lot of reflection about not playing in the grand final… but what gets me through is seeing guys like Sammy Azzi and Riley Bice step up and run with it.”
“It brings me so much joy to see the success that I hope will continue for many more years.”
