Former Socceroo and A-League defender Michael Thwaite has called time on his playing career 19 years after making his professional debut.
Thwaite, 37, announced the news via a Gold Coast United media release on Tuesday.
Thwaite began his career in 2002 with Sydney University, going on to play with Marconi Stallions in the NSL, before moving to FC National Bucuresti in Romania and playing in Poland and Norway, returning to Australia with Melbourne Victory in 2008.
Thwaite spent the next seven years between Gold Coast United and Perth Glory in the A-League, and had a stint in China before playing for Western Sydney Wanderers, and then back at the revived Gold Coast United in the NPL.
The central defender made 13 appearances for the Socceroos between 2005 and 2013, and was a squad member in the famous 2005 victory over Uruguay.
Gold Coast United released the following statement:
"On behalf of everyone here at Gold Coast United FC and from across football near and far, thanks Michael and congratulations on your contribution to the game.
Thwaitey’s football journey took off when he moved from Cairns to Sydney as a teenager in 2002 for University.
Fittingly his last ‘competitive’ match was leading his beloved Queensland on to Perry Park in the NPL ‘State of Origin’ match late 2020, a proud moment, one of many.
In between times, across those 18 years, some blood, plenty of sweat and a few tears shed in an impressive playing career that criss-crossed the globe and country.
Michael competed with distinction in the NSL, overseas, in the Aleague, for our National teams and in the NPL. His commitment and dedication to the game and his professionalism and approach have always been exemplary.
‘Bravo Thwaitey’ well played!
We’ve been privileged to have you at the club and we wish you, Chantelle and the girls all the very best."