North Melbourne veteran Jess Sinclair has announced his retirement from AFL football.

Originally from East Ringwood, the 30-year-old played 142 games for North after crossing in 2000 from Fremantle where he played 50 games over three seasons.

Sinclair, who was in tears in the rooms following North's Elimination Final loss to Sydney at ANZ Stadium last Saturday night, said that the club and its people meant a great deal to him.

"I would like to thank the North Melbourne Football Club for the opportunities I have been given over the past eight years," Sinclair said.

"The club has been very supportive through my career - it has been like a second family."

"I wish all of the players, coaches and staff all the very best and look forward to watching the group achieve success in the future."

Sinclair's season was hampered by a serious thumb injury sustained in a NAB Challenge Series match at Subiaco Oval then an ankle injury which restricted him to just six senior appearances for 2008.

North Melbourne football operations chief Donald McDonald said Sinclair had made a great contribution during his career at Arden Street.

"Jess has been a good player for us over a long period of time, which is testament to his commitment and work ethic," McDonald said.

"He is renowned as one of the hardest trainers at the club and his professionalism set a great example to those around him, particularly the younger members of our list."

"Jess should be extremely proud of what he has achieved on and off the field."

"He has been a respected and popular teammate and a valued member of the North Melbourne Football Club."

"We will support him fully as he makes the transition to life after football."

Sinclair will see out the season with North Melbourne's VFL affiliate, Werribee.

"Football is what I know and what I love - I think I've got plenty to offer and plan to stay involved in the game in some capacity," he said.