Fremantle forward Sam Switkowski fought hard to put his club's devastating grand final defeat into perspective after it brought an end to his nine-year AFL career.
Switkowski announced his shock retirement plans on the eve of the finals, citing family reasons for choosing to return home to Victoria at season's end.
The 29-year-old almost went out on the ultimate high, but had his premiership dream ripped away when Brisbane rattled home late in Saturday's decider to snatch the flag with a 14.12 (96) to 12.17 (89) triumph.
"We all know footy can be cruel like that," Switkowski said.
"I would still rather have that sort of game than to have lost by 10 goals.
"It's a little bit hard to get over the disappointment and devastation of it, but I'm just so proud that everyone gave it their all.
"We played the type of footy we've played all year to give us our best chance."
Switkowski became a father in early September when his wife Savannah gave birth to a baby boy, just days before Fremantle's qualifying final defeat to Hawthorn.
The Dockers recovered to beat Geelong and Sydney in knockout finals but ultimately fell short of a maiden premiership.
"There's been a lot going on and I feel so lucky to be a dad now," Switkowski said.
"I can't wait to get home and see my wife and son. It's great perspective to have, but clearly it's a mixture of emotions."
Switkowski kicked 13 goals in 26 games this year, playing an important role in Fremantle's forward line as they claimed the minor premiership.
"I'm proud and grateful for what this club's done all year," Switkowski said.
"I'm so connected to each and every person - I love them all - and the most important thing is that we stick together.
"I know that the boys will do that leading into pre-season and next year.
"I've enjoyed every moment and will continue to do so over the next couple of weeks finishing up."
Drafted from Box Hill as a mature-age recruit in 2017, Switkowski finished with 79 goals in 131 games for the Dockers.
