Rams legend Craig Cooley calls it a day

Football NSW League Two outfit Macarthur Rams said farewell to one of its longest serving footballers as club legend Craig “King” Cooley announced his retirement after playing an incredible 350 matches for the Lynwood Park based side.

The 39-year-old pulled on the Rams kit one last time as Macarthur took on St George FC in a friendly hit-out last weekend at Lynwood Park with the game named in his honour as tributes and tears flowed post-match with the defender calling it a day.

“It was definitely an emotional evening for me as I had some amazing memories and met some fantastic people during my time at the Rams.

“I first played for the club in the 20s back in 2003 and then made my first grade debut in 2006.

“From that year on I stood by the Rams playing just over 350 matches so I can say I am super proud of playing for the one club.

“Playing my final match in front of my family and friends at Lynwood Park against St George FC  was something I will always remember.”

Cooley quite simply lived and breathed Macarthur as he spent the first part of his junior career playing for the local association until making the move to the Rams as a 19-year-old.

It was there he took his game to the next level as he stated to Football NSW his proudest moments and supporters that kept him going during his time at the club.

“I’d have to say that the best moment of my career at the club was taking out the 2014 NPL 2 NSW Men’s Grand Final defeating Parramatta FC 2-1.

“Claudio Canosa was my coach at the time, and we had some fantastic years under him.

“I’d like to thank the club and everyone involved throughout my years as well as my family for all their support.

“I was very fortunate to have played with and against so many great players, had many great coaches and managers as well as meeting a lot of good people who I can call friends for life.”

Macarthur Rams will most certainly not see the last of their legendary former skipper as Cooley stated he’d love to stay involved in some capacity.

“For sure, I would love to stay involved with the club in the future, they’ve given me so much.

“I’d like to wish them all the best for this season and hope the boys can win promotion into the next tier for 2023.”

Congrats on an amazing innings “King” Cooley!

Photos by Jill Bennett Photography