Western Sydney A-League defensive utility Dean Heffernan on Wednesday announced his retirement from professional football.
Having joined the Wanderers at the start of the season, Heffernan made 14 appearances in his final campaign and will be fondly remembered as a popular character around the club.
His season at the Wanderers completed an impressive career which took him to international heights including Germany's Bundesliga as well as scoring for the Socceroos.
A relatively late bloomer for a modern footballer, only debuting at age 22, Heffernan also played in the former NSL in Australia, Football League One and the Chinese Super League.
Reflecting on his career, Heffernan said his time at the Wanderers was like no other.
"The Wanderers was a whole new experience with the way the fans are and how the support interacts with all sides of the stadium," stated Heffernan.
"That's what football is about and the fans were half the reason I came here; to have the opportunity to play in front of them."
Heffernan also highlighted the pride he felt at the club's on-field achievements.
"We were a good team, we worked hard, we got through to the grand final and achieved our goals of getting through the round of 16 in the (Asian) Champions League. Those are things I will always remember.
"I made a lot of good friends at the Wanderers and I want to thank the players and fans for welcoming me in to the Wanderers' family and I wish nothing but success for the club in the future."
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