Hird to play on but not as captain.

James Hird has announced he will play on next year, but appears likely to step down as captain in order to focus on his form and keeping his body sound.

Making the announcement from Essendon's Hall of Fame on Tuesday, Hird said he had signed a one-year deal to play in 2006 and was mentally preparing for next season to be his last.

"It takes a lot of emotional energy … thinking about whether you should play on and I'm actually glad now that I've made a decision," Hird said.

"It's a decision for 2006 that excites me. This will be it and I can really put all my energies into the last two games of this year and the rest of next year.
While exact figures were not disclosed, Essendon chief executive Peter Jackson said the terms of the deal were significantly lower than Hird's previous contract.

Hird cited his love of the game and the excitement generated by the Bombers' developing playing group as the primary reasons for his decision.

While he was approaching next year as his last, Hird left the door open for a re-think if his body was sound and the team's form warranted it.

"You never say never. Why would you if we have a great year as a team and personally you play well and you contribute, why would you shut the door?," he said.

I should turn this into a James Hird fansite.