Sydney Swans defender Rhyce Shaw has announced he will retire at season’s end.

The 33 year old defender told teammates during the week that his 16th AFL season would be his last.

Shaw will take part in his 233rd AFL match this Saturday afternoon against the GWS Giants.

He commenced his career with Collingwood in 2000 and played a total of 94 games over a span of nine years.

He joined the Swans for the 2009 season and after his first year with the Club was voted into the leadership group.

He has remained in the leadership group ever since and has been a key driver of the team both on and off the field.

Sydney Swans coach John Longmire praised Shaw for his contribution to the Club.

“He has been able to produce at a high level for a long time and remains an important part of our defensive unit. He still has a key role to play for us over the coming weeks and we look forward to seeing his customary run and attack from the backline,” he said.

“Shawry’s impact as a leader has been immense and so many young players over the years have developed under his guidance.

“He is an incredibly popular figure amongst the entire playing group. Humble, loyal, selfless and very funny - he is just a great club man,” Longmire said.

Shaw was a key part of the Swans triumphant premiership team in 2012, and was member of Grand Final teams in 2003 and 2014.

He was runner up in the Swans Club Champion award in 2011, the same year he was voted as the Best Clubman.