ADELAIDE St Kilda coach Alan Richardson told James Gwilt and Clinton Jones after training last Tuesday night they would not be offered new contracts at the club.
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Yet, despite being told they were no longer required, the 28-year-olds played in Sunday's 79-point losing game to Adelaide at Adelaide Oval and kept the news quiet.
"They did not want to take anything away from Lenny's (Hayes) last game," Richardson said. "It was enormous class by them today."
Richardson said Gwilt, who played 126 games with the Saints, and Jones, 149 games, had not retired as announced during the game.
"We had a conversation earlier in the week that there would not be a position for those two guys going forward," Richardson said. "We had a fantastic conversation with all their teammates behind closed doors after the game to talk about what they meant to the footy club… just great people.
"That's the journey we're on. We need to bring in young players. I think both can have real roles at other clubs; they both have real strengths."
When asked whether Adam Schneider would be offered a contract, Richardson refused to speculate.
"There is still work to do without doubt," Richardson said when speaking of more team list changes. "I won't mention any other players until the decisions have been made. There are some factors we need to work through.
"We played 42 players this season and if not for rules that don't allow you to elevate rookies with potential we would have played another one after round 19.
"We still need to bring in some talent. We have had one draft where we were able to get in the top end."
Hayes, who said he became emotional when he saw his mum in the crowd after the game, reducing him to tears, said he could see a bright future for this group.
"I was in a similar position as they are now, probably 14 years ago," Hayes said. "The club was not going well on the field but we had a good group of young guys and we were really tight… I see that happening for this group. They have been willing to learn."
Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson said his club was looking forward to having a first round draft pick, and also hinted at significant list changes.
Jarryd Lyons had been touted as possible draft bait, but Sanderson said he had been really pleased with his recent form, especially on Sunday, and indicated he was keen for him to stay at the club.
