Over a 200-game career, Eldridge has done it all for the Magpies.
The man fondly referred to as “Tex” departs as a playing co-coach of Moama's 2010 premiership triumph, life member of the club and best-and-fairest winner.
He took the reins as coach for the 2019 season, overseeing a list rebuild and then the cancelled 2020 season before guiding his team to a spot in the top eight.
But this season will be his last and, after a lengthy playing career, Eldridge said in a club announcement on Facebook that the time was right to step away.
“I have had an amazing time playing and coaching at Moama in my 13 years with the club,” Eldridge said.
“After 23 years of senior footy — it’s time.
“I’m not going anywhere, so it’s not goodbye. I’ll be there watching my kids play footy and netball, assisting in anyway required around the club and enjoying a cold one while watching from the sidelines.”
Even at the back end of his career, Eldridge has still been one of club's best performers in 2021. In 12 games, the stalwart has booted 21 goals and been best-on-ground twice.
Club president Matt Lake praised Eldridge's contribution to the club, saying he's left an “indelible mark” on the black-and-white.
“Luke has done an excellent job under difficult circumstances over the last three years,” Lake said.
“Starting in 2019 with an extensive list rebuild, last year’s complete football lockdown and onto the stop-start, disruptive season we have endured this year.
“Luke has left an indelible mark on the Moama FNC.”
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