North Melbourne coach Brad Scott has labelled retired defender Nathan Grima "a real warrior" and says the backman has the skills to forge a successful media career.

The 29-year-old announced his retirement on Wednesday after eight injury-interrupted seasons that netted him 86 games for the Roos.

Scott said he had a tremendous level of respect for Grima's achievements and attitude over the journey.

"It's a sad day in a way (but) I prefer to celebrate Nathan's career," Scott told reporters on Wednesday.

"He's a story of persistence, he's a player who had to work really hard to get his opportunity to play football at the highest level and I thought he did it with aplomb.

"Every coach really regards ultra-competitive people and Nathan is the epitome of that.

"He's been a real warrior for our football club."

The Roos' coach said he was certain Grima would not stay out of the spotlight for long courtesy of his down-to-earth approach to life and wry sense of humour.

"He won't be lost to football, I think that he's got a really good media career ahead of him – he stands out in that area," Scott said.

"A savvy producer will get hold of him pretty quickly and fans will still be able to see Nathan Grima but hear a different side of him.

"He'll be sadly missed but we'll see him on TV or hear him on radio pretty soon."

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