I was reading up about kouta and found this, his retirement.
After a sleepless night, Koutoufides steeled himself for one last tough assignment - breaking the news to teammates at Princes Park early yesterday before training.
He kept his composure as he stepped up to address the senior list, coaching and support staff, including property steward Wayne "Bulldog" Gilbert who spotted him as a 14-year-old with Lalor.
But he unashamedly wept as players surrounded him, to hug and shake hands in a pertinent reminder of their own football mortality.
"I looked over and when I saw his (Gilbert's) face, I couldn't talk after that. You have such a long association with guys," Koutoufides said.
"I love talking to them and spending time with them. It's not easy to say goodbye.
"It's emotional when you see those faces, guys you've been associated with for so long. It has been such a great part of your life.
"I've seen quite a few (retirement announcements) and seen tears flow. I don't think Ratts (Brett Ratten) lasted even 10 seconds. Some can stand up strong and others get a bit emotional.
"It's a bit like when my father passed away, it's hard to accept. But it is reality and it sort of hit home last night."
Koutoufides was resigned to this being his last season, but the doctor ended it early on Monday when scans revealed a more serious hip injury.
Feel like crying now after reading that =, (