Richards has racked up 78 matches for Brindabella in the Masters over 45 league over the past nine years against people more than three decades younger than him.

Before his transition to the Masters, the veteran defender spent 11 years playing reserve grade for Weston Creek.

"I've been playing football for a long time, I'll miss most of all the interaction between the team and the people, the soccer community that's one of the most important things," Richards said.

"I think I'd rather retire gracefully then be told I don't think you should turn up anymore, I was getting too slow.

"That doesn't mean I won't be kicking the ball around.

"I still keep in touch with the guys. I wasn't told to go, in fact I was asked to continue and it was mentioned about the over 55 [competition].

"I did actually play the preseason games and I actually scored a goal, but no I do think it's time to retire."

A pacemaker didn't stop Richards sneaking forward and scoring a few goals in his later years.

"I have learned to be in the right place at the right time and if I get the right ball, I'll put it in the net, I did score a few goals last season," Richards said.

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Richards has been able to play at a high level for so long due to his ability to maintain his fitness and stay injury free.

"I was gifted with good genes, I've always been healthy, I've always been able to keep fit.

"There are players in the teams that I've played with that I've looked up to too, without mentioning any names."

Richards will be honoured by Brindabella during an intra-club round robin tournament, to be played on Sunday.