NON-LEAGUE stalwart Mark Ricketts reckons he had “the best job in the world” after the 39-year-old earned himself legendary status at Ebbsfleet United, Woking and Boreham Wood over a stellar 19-year career.
But the midfield dynamo has announced his retirement after seeing out his playing days at Dulwich Hamlet.
“So after nearly 700 appearances I’ve made the tough decision that the time has come to call it a day at the end of the season,” Ricketts said on X.
“It’s been one hell of a ride and I feel incredibly blessed to have experienced so many great moments over the years that will live with me for the rest of my life.”
The former Charlton Athletic academy product took his first steps into Non-League at Gravesend & Northfleet (now Ebbsfleet) in 2006 where he stayed for three years before making the switch to Woking.
Seven years at Kingfield yielded over 250 appearances before being snapped up by Luke Garrard at Boreham Wood, where he stayed for another seven seasons.
“There we came so close to promotion to the Football League, walking out with my eldest daughter that day as captain at Wembley will always be a highlight,” Ricketts reflected.
Amove to Dulwich followed in the summer where Ricketts led their Isthmian Pfremier campaign after relegation from National League South last season.
“My last club as a player is Dulwich and it has genuinely been a privilege to captain and to play for this special club,” Ricketts added.
“It hasn’t been the season many of us had hoped for, but it has still been great fun and hopefully Dulwich will get the success the club deserves next season.”
“So, 23 years on from leaving school to play football fulltime, it’s time to say goodbye. Best job in the world.”
