Nathan Thompson has today written an open letter following his departure.
Our former Captain, who joined the club at the age of twelve and went on to make 187 appearances for the club, completed a move to Portsmouth on Thursday and will officially join the League One outfit once his Town contract expires on July 1st.
Thompson will go down as a Swindon icon and the defender has penned the following letter to everyone connected with the club...
To everyone associated with STFC,
It is with a heavy heart and a lump in my throat I write this open letter to you before I can look to the future.
After 14 years at this wonderful club, and over 180 first team appearances, I found it is time for me to say goodbye and to grow as a player in a new setting and a new opportunity.
But that has not been an easy decision to make.
This club is where I've grown from a boy to a man. I've seen numerous players, Managers, Chairmen and background staff come and go - too many to keep count.
It's been a rollercoaster journey, but the fans have stayed throughout that, and as time went on you all made me feel part of the Swindon family.
It was a privilege and an honour to be made captain of this club at the age of 23 and that's something I will always keep dear to my heart and I will always be grateful for.
During my captaincy, I helped lead this team to within one game of the Championship and sadly, through the trap door of relegation this year.
For that I apologise that we as a club couldn't be better last year. It hurts me to see this club in League Two as the fans and the club deserve so much better.
But I have every faith this club will bounce back with the incredible support of this town.
My time at Swindon - as you'd expect in 8 years of being a professional at one club - suffered a few injuries. More often than not, this was probably because I was too committed to the cause.
I would try to play through the pain barrier to help my team and I'd end up paying the price for it.
That's my loyalty and passion but it was always for the best intention of trying to help and lead the team.
On the pitch, I'm proud to have been part of a side, that on its day, was capable of playing the best football in the league.
There are some games where I'll never forget the atmosphere and support at the County Ground and those are the memories I will cherish.
I want to personally thank each and every fan for your support, encouragement and making me feel like one of your own. I've also received so many touching messages so I thank you all.
I'd like to thank all of the people who work for the club - many who aren't in the spotlight, you know who you are - for being constant friendly faces no matter what was happening on the pitch.
Finally, I'd like to thank each chairman, manager and coach who believed in me and gave me my opportunity. I'll be forever grateful and humble.
While all good things must come to an end, if it's meant to be, I truly believe my path with Swindon will cross again.
Swindon will always feel like home and if I'm back in the area, I look forward to showing my support and I will continue to follow the team.
Until then, best wishes.
Nathan Thompson.