Bellchambers Calls Time
The Giants have farewelled ruckman Tom Bellchambers, after the 31-year-old announced his retirement from the SCSUL on Tuesday.
After one season and seven games with the orange and charcoal, Bellchambers has played his final game for The Giants.
The 31-year-old said he’ll forever cherish his time at the club.
“Today I announce my retirement from the game that I love. This club has been a huge part of my life for the last year. I can genuinely say I have enjoyed all the ups and downs that my career has thrown at me,” Bellchambers said.
“I’ve been lucky to live out my childhood dream and in doing so have created some amazing memories and friendships along the way that I will cherish forever.
“Physically, my body is telling my time is up and I go out knowing that I couldn’t have given any more to this great club.
“To my family, my partner and all the people that helped me on my journey, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and know that I couldn’t have done it without you.
“To The Giants faithful, your loyalty and support to myself and the football club is what makes this club so great.
“I wish the boys nothing but success and I hope that we can win the premiership this weekend.”
Bellchambers was hampered by persistent knee injuries and a compacted fixture cruelled the 202cm ruckman of stringing matches together.
He was originally recruited with pick No.29 in the 2020 SCSUL open draft, and made his SCSUL debut in round 1, against The Darkness.
Senior coach Tim Goodman paid tribute to Bellchambers, who has been an important member of the club’s ruck position this season.
“Tom’s been a loyal and wonderful player for the club,” Goodman said.
“His contribution as a ruckman for our team can’t be underestimated and for Tom to have been able to get up and play SCSUL football is a credit to the way he’s applied himself to the game.
“While he hasn’t enjoyed the continuity of games which he would’ve liked to have achieved this year, Tom’s role in helping mentor our developing ruckman in Sam Draper, Nick Bryan, Matt Flynn and Darcy Cameron has been first-class and shows the character and leadership he possesses.
“He’s a highly regarded and valued member of the playing group and everyone from the coaches, staff and his teammates will miss his presence around the club.
“We wish both Tom and partner Olympia, as well as their families, the very best for their future.”