As I stand here today, reflecting on my 13 incredible years at Crystal Palace, I’m filled with a mix of emotions – sadness, gratitude, and above all, love for this amazing club. Today marks my last day as a Palace player, and I’m overwhelmed with memories of the journey we’ve shared.
A Legacy of Dedication and Passion
364 appearances, 6 goals, 1 promotion, and 1 FA Cup – the numbers don’t even begin to tell the story of my time here. It’s the late nights, the early mornings, the sweat, the tears, and the triumphs that have defined my career. I’ve had the privilege of working with ten permanent managers, each with their own unique style and approach, and I’ve learned something new from each one of them.
A Club that’s More than Just a Team
Crystal Palace is more than just a football club – it’s a family. The fans, the players, the staff – we’re all connected by a shared passion for the beautiful game. I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of this family for over a decade, and I’ll carry the memories and lessons I’ve learned here with me for the rest of my life.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As I bid farewell to the club I love, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who’s supported me on this journey. To the fans, thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. To my teammates, thank you for your camaraderie and friendship. To the staff, thank you for your hard work and dedication. And to the club, thank you for giving me the opportunity to live my dream.
Smile Because it Happened
As I move on to the next chapter of my life, I’m filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. I’ve given it my all, and I know that I’ve left everything on the pitch. Don’t cry because it’s over – smile because it happened. I’m grateful for the experiences, the memories, and the friendships I’ve made here. #CPFC #JoelWard #Farewell
