Brisbane Roar can confirm that Mariel Hecher and Keeley Richards will play their last game with the club this Saturday afternoon against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park.
Mariel Hecher joined Roar ahead of the 2020/2021 campaign and has since become a mainstay at the club where she has made a total of 48 appearances, scored four goals and made four assists.
This season, Hecher showcased her attacking prowess and leadership through playing 18 matches and netting two goals with two assists ahead of her final game this Saturday.
“Retiring from football is never an easy decision, especially when you have been a part of a professional environment for a long time,” Hecher said.
“It becomes part of who you are and dictates how you live your life to enhance your performance.”
“I am ready for the next stage after football to focus on full time work, have weekends off, and spend more time with family and friends.”
“It was great being part of Brisbane Roar for the past five seasons. I have many beautiful memories, have met some incredible people and it will be a chapter that I will forever cherish.”
Keeley Richards moved to Brisbane from the capital after making her top-flight debut with Canberra United in 2020. She then made her Roar debut in Round 20 of the 2023/24 campaign, stepping into goals after Jordan Silkowitz was recalled to her parent club.
This weekend, Richards will make her tenth appearance for Brisbane Roar.
“Playing professional football has always been a dream of mine since I was a kid, and I honestly never thought I’d get to where I am” Richards said.
“The opportunity to play at this level for last five years has been truly incredible.”
“I’m extremely grateful to Canberra United for giving me a chance and making my debut alongside such incredible players at Viking Park is a moment I’ll never forget.”
“Being able to play my last two seasons at home for Brisbane Roar in front of family and friends has been a true privilege. The support from the fans and Brisbane community is unrivalled and I’m very grateful for everything.”
Brisbane Roar wishes both players all the very best in their respective next steps, and thank them both for their contribution to the club.
