By Parker McKenzie
Former Hawthorn star Liam Shiels’ retirement didn’t last long after AFL.com.au reported he is set to reunite with his former coach Alistair Clarkson at North Melbourne.
Shiels, who played his junior career with The Basin Football Club, announced his retirement on 1 September after 250 games and three premierships with Hawthorn.
Shortly after the decision, Shiels told the Star Mail he was excited for life after football and the “opportunities that may present themselves.”
“I’ll take a couple of months to sit down, relax and assess the options,” he said.
“I’ve loved spending time with young developing players this year, if there was a development coaching role that came up somewhere it would definitely be something I’d consider.”
The decision to continue his playing career, however, was something he flagged in an earlier interview with the Star Mail on 9 May after his milestone 250th game.
“My body still feels good and I’m really enjoying it. My mind’s in a good place and hopefully, I’ve got another year or two left in me,” he said.
“I’m 31 now, that’s old in terms of footy and you usually get one-year contracts after that. Fingers crossed I can stay at Hawthorn and be a one-club player.”
While Shiels won’t remain a one-club player, he is set to continue at a new club for the first time in his professional career after 14 years at Hawthorn, where he is a life member.
