Retiring midfielder Scott Thompson isn’t giving up hope of a fairytale finish, but says he’ll do whatever he can – on or away from the field – to help Adelaide achieve success this season.

On Tuesday, Thompson announced his retirement from the game effective at the end of the season.

The 308-game veteran has been limited to one AFL appearance in 2017, playing regularly with the SANFL Crows.

Thompson said he would continue to press for senior selection, but that he would put the best interests of the Club first.

“If fairytales happen, I’d certainly put my hand up that’s for sure, but I know exactly where I sit at the moment,” Thompson said.

“There are (five) home and away games left plus finals. I’m certainly going to do everything I can to play a role in that.

“I had a brief chat with the boys earlier. (I said that) We’re in a very good position, but the hard work starts now.

“I think we’re capable, as a group, of chasing huge success not only this year but going forward.

“I also said to them, ‘Don’t slacken off because I’m right up your arse and I’ll take your spot if you don’t watch it!

“We’ve got some good things to look forward to as a Club.”

Thompson is still chasing the ultimate success.

The All Australian and two-time Club Champion has played in 16 finals, but never reached the Grand Final stage.

“I’ve played in three losing prelim finals, in ’05’, ‘06’ and then again in ‘12’,” he said.

“I thought we had a team that was capable of going all the way and for whatever reason it didn’t happen. They’re games I don’t want to remember, but do.

“I also spoke to the boys about that … doing whatever it takes to chase that ultimate success.

“(I’m still) chasing that Grand Final dream at the moment.”

With or without a premiership medal, Thompson says he’ll walk away from the game with no regrets.

“I think I’ve pushed myself hard from day dot,” he said.

“I’ve had some really good people to learn off over the years. Back at Melbourne when I first started out there, there were a number of senior guys in that side that taught me good habits.

“Then I had the luxury of coming into this team with a number of the champions of this Club – the training standards and work ethic they set inside this footy club, I was able to learn from that as well.

“Hopefully, in the past decade and a bit I’ve been able to pass some of that onto the playing group sitting here, and some of the young boys who have walked in the door recently.”

A model of consistency and durability, Thompson became only the 75^th player in VFL/AFL history to reach 300 games when he ran out in Round 17 last season.

The strong-bodied onballer ranks eighth all-time in games played for the Adelaide Football Club (269).

Coach Don Pyke, who was an assistant coach when Thompson joined the Club ahead of the 2005 season, said the respected leader would leave a lasting legacy at West Lakes.

“When he first arrived … he was a cantankerous young man who had a great passion for the game and the blonde tips – back when he had hair!” Pyke said.

“What I saw was a guy who wanted the very best. So, I sit here 10 years later not surprised that he’s achieved what he’s achieved because he came with a great attitude towards the game.

“He plays the game the right way. He plays with a really aggressive mindset around the contest and that’s what’s allowed him to (a) play the number of games that he’s played but (b) have the influence he’s had.”

A Port Magpies junior and former Port Adelaide fan, Thompson’s childhood allegiances changed quickly when he was traded to the Crows from Melbourne at the end of the 2004 season.

“When I came back (to South Australia), I had a few mates talk to me about how the fact that I couldn’t stand the Adelaide footy club as a kid growing up!” he said.

“The fact that I’ve spent 13 years inside these four walls now, I wouldn’t change that for the world.”

At ease with his decision to retire and relieved to have told his family, friends and teammates, Thompson hopes to turn his attention to coaching once the season is complete.

Described as having a “good football brain” by midfield mentor Scott Camporeale, Thompson has had an unofficial coaching role with Adelaide’s SANFL team this year.

“By choice, I would’ve spent the year at AFL level but it hasn’t panned out that way. Spending the season with a bunch of our young guys through the SANFL has really opened my eyes as well,” he said.

“We’ve got a great culture here and being able to watch closely some of the younger guys go about their business, talk to them about their game and see the things they train during the week happen in games I’ve found really rewarding.”

As well as his professionalism and leadership, Thompson is recognised for the physique he’s worked so hard to develop over 17 years in the AFL system. ‘Thommo’ said he was happy to pass the mantle of best ‘rig’ to a worthy teammate.

“The boys were talking about getting a shot (photo) after to put up in the gym! But I said, ‘Hard work will get you there boys, you’ll be right’.”