St Kilda co-captain Callum Wikie thought it was a joke at first when he was told that teammate Rowan Marshall had been traded to Geelong.
Wilkie was speaking to media on Thursday afternoon, having just answered a question about Marshall, who boycotted Monday night’s best and fairest night as he sought a trade to the Cats for the second year in a row.
But just as he finished answering, Wilkie was told by 7NEWS reporter Xander McGuire that the trade had gone through.
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The two clubs appeared a long way apart in negotiations for the 30-year-old ruckman, but a deal was struck on Thursday with the Cats agreeing to send over pick No.14 in exchange for Marshall and a future third-round pick.
Wilkie was thought it was “fake” at first as he burst out into laughter.
“That’s a fake one, obviously … Actual?” He said.
When told it was in fact real, Wilkie offered his congratulations despite admitting it was a “bizarre” way to find out.
“There you go, just cut the rest of what I said … I’m seeing him tomorrow so congrats for him,” he continued.
“That’s obviously what the club wanted and there we go, bizarre.
“I’m happy for both parties. He obviously wanted to go to Geelong and he’s been a great servant for 10 years. Can’t wait to share a beer with him and thank him for the service he’s given to the footy club.
“I wish him well, but it’s good that the club got what they wanted.”
Marshall was also busy when the trade went down, with his golf game improving once his wish was officially granted.
St Kilda general manager Lenny Hayes also wished Marshall well, and was happy to land another first-round pick in return.
“While we respected Rowan’s desire for a fresh environment, it was important the club received adequate compensation for someone who’s played at a consistently high level over the course of the past decade,” he said.
“We are pleased to have achieved this by bringing in another first round selection, alongside our existing pick at No.8.
“Rowan has provided terrific service and been an admired figure within the St Kilda Football Club over the past decade.
“While we would have liked for Rowan to see out his career at the Saints, we wish him the best for this next chapter and thank him for the role he’s played within our club – on and off the field.”
Despite a somewhat fractured end to his time at the club, Marshall said he leaves with great memories.
“I have loved my time at the Saints and always wanted to leave the club in a better place through my contributions on the field,” he said in a statement.
“The club’s passionate supporters have shown me so much love and support over the past decade, which always made me determined to make them proud.
“There are so many coaches, teammates and staff, both past and present, that have provided great support and friendship over the years.
“I leave with great memories and wish the club the best for the future.”
