Collingwood premiership defender and 2011 All-Australian Ben Reid has called time on his distinguished career.

The 31 year-old informed team-mates and football staff of his decision today, ahead of the team’s flight to Perth for the elimination final against West Coast at Optus Stadium on October 3.

Reid was slated to make the trip to Perth but did not travel.

“This year was going to be my last and I had a minor setback on Thursday so rather than take a risk and go to Perth I thought it was better to let a younger player go, someone with their future ahead of them,” Reid said.

“In a sense, I grew up at Collingwood and I’m just so thankful for all that I experienced, all that I learnt and the many great people I met.

“It was just a wonderful time in my life that I wish could go on forever but, of course, it never can and my time has come. The next phase of my life, with my wife Erin, has arrived and we’re looking forward to that.

“Thanks to the Collingwood Army for their fanaticism and voice. Thanks to the many team-mates, coaches, friends and family who travelled with me over the years. Whatever I was able to do it was with your help.”

Reid was selected by Collingwood with the eighth selection in the 2006 national draft and quickly lived up to his lofty junior standing.

By 21 years of age, in 2010, he was a premiership defender and by 22 the owner of an All-Australian blazer. Injuries curtailed the second half of his 14 year career and still he played 152 matches, held his own across the years against some of the best key forwards in the game and proved to be a forward who commanded respect. Reid kicked 25 goals in 2013.

His last appearance in black and white was against Melbourne at the Gabba in round 12, on August 15.

“ ‘Reidy’ has been one of the most popular players in the Collingwood change rooms for almost 15 years which, I hope, is something he treasures as much as his fine career and all that he achieved,” Collingwood GM of Football, Geoff Walsh, said.

“We will miss him. He is a good one.”