Australian hockey legend Dwyer bids adieu

Australian hockey icon Jamie Dwyer on Thursday penned an emotional message after his 16-year- long trophy-laden illustrious career ended with the loss against the Netherlands in the Rio Olympic Games.

The World Player of the Year in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2007 and 2004 was the leading figure in Australia's title-winning sides at the 2004 Olympic Games and the 2010 and 2014 World Cups.

However, the prolific forward's dreams of ending his career with another Olympic gold medal fell short as Australia were blanked 0-4 by the Netherlands in the quarter-finals on Sunday.

"It didn't go to plan at this olympics but it was still great to be apart of another Olympic games. I'd like to thank my sponsors, family and friends, and a huge thanks to my fans all around the world," the 37-year-old wrote on Facebook.

"I've really enjoyed playing for my country for 16 years, I've travelled to some amazing places, played hockey with and against some brilliant players and had the most amazing time ever," he added.

"I'll miss wearing the green and gold and I'll miss competing at the highest level that's for sure. I hope you all enjoyed my journey."

Making his debut in 2001, Dwyer went on to play 365 games and scored 242 goals.

Dwyer also got two Olympic bronze medals at the 2008 and 2012 Games, apart from two silver medals from the 2002 and 2006 FIH World Cups.

He was controversially excluded from the squad after the 2014 World Cup but he bounced back to be part of the Olympic squad.

He will continue to play in the cash-rich Hockey India League (HIL), where he turns up for Uttar Pradesh Wizards.

--IANS

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