Wick Academy midfielder Sam Mackay has announced his retirement at the age of 31.
Mackay had planned on hanging up his boots when his contract was due to expire this summer, however the Golspie-born player has opted to call it a day after the Highland League season was cut short due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Mackay’s decision ends a 16-year career in the league, which started with Brora Rangers.
After making more than 100 appearances for the Cattachs, during which he was made captain during his teenage years, Mackay made the switch to Deveronvale in 2008.
He spent just over 12 months at Princess Royal Park however, before returning north to Wick in September 2009.
Mackay has remained at Harmsworth Park since, making 349 appearances for the Scorries and netting 141 goals.
Mackay was part of Wick’s North of Scotland Cup winning side which defeated Nairn County 6-2 in 2015 to secure the club’s first silverware as a Highland League outfit.
Work and family commitments have prompted Mackay to cut his career short however, and he said: “It’s something I have been thinking long and hard about. The decision was kind of made at the start of the season.
“I had a year left on my contract, and it was always going to be in my best interests to see out the contract.
“With the circumstances, and everything that’s happening just now, that wasn’t possible, so I had to cut it short.
“I’ve had plenty of highs and lows but I just want to say a big thanks to everybody who has played a part in my Highland League career.
“I have played with and against some fantastic players, some have made the step up to other leagues and manager positions.
“It has been an absolute pleasure and I will look back with fond memories of my career.”
