'STOKE club captain and veteran of the game, Simon Dunn, has announced he will be hanging up his boots and retiring at the end of the season, saying it has been "an honour and a privilege."
A 'Stoke legend, Dunn joined the Dragons in the under-18s setup, making his debut in 2011 and quickly establishing himself in the first team for a number of seasons before moving to Slough Town in 2016 and then returning to 'Stoke in 2020.
The midfielder, 31, has long been a fan favourite at the club, and played a crucial role during Basingstoke Town FC's treble-winning season.
However, having faced a "challenging" 12-months, the skipper has decided this current season will be his last, not just with the club, but as a whole.
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In an emotional open letter to the fans published on the club's official website, Dunn said:
"Dear 'Stoke Fans,
"After a lot of thought over the past few weeks, I have made the decision to retire from football at the end of this season.
"The last 12 months have been particularly challenging for me, both physically and mentally. I have faced more setbacks than I’m used to, and with two wonderful children to care for at home, I am finding it increasingly difficult to muster the energy required to recover from these challenges.
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"With a definitive end date, I can focus on giving absolutely everything I’ve got for the next six months, one last time."
Dunn added that it has been a "privilege" to play for "two great clubs, achieving two promotions, County Cups, and appearing in the FA Cup first and second rounds proper on numerous occasions.
"But it’s these last few seasons that I’ll remember most."
In a heartfelt comment, Simon explained what the past couple of years at the club have meant to him.
He said: "From where the club was to where it is now, I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to captain my hometown club through one of its most successful periods.
"Knowing what it meant to people, that day in April 2023 will stay with me for the rest of my life."
He went on to thank the manager, Dan Brownlie, for the support he gave to him, stating the club is "incredibly fortunate to have him as manager."
Dunn made a promise to fans that he will commit himself for the next part of the season.
He said: "I will continue to do everything I can for the next six months and aim to play as big a part as possible between now and April. Let’s hope we can create a few more memories to finish on.
"It’s been and will remain an honour and a privilege."
A club statement from Basingstoke Town Community Football Club reads: "As a football club, we are naturally disappointed that Simon’s time as a player is coming to an end.
"However, we understand that his clarity in making this decision will benefit him, and it gives us the opportunity to give him the send-off he truly deserves.
"Until that moment, we will continue to appreciate the quality, leadership, and unwavering commitment of our club captain."
Read the full letter here: https://btfc.co.uk/updates/simon-dunn-captain-leader-legend/
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