Premiership-winning midfielder and Brownlow medallist Tom Mitchell has officially announced his retirement from the Australian Football League, bringing an end to a distinguished 207-game career that spanned three clubs. The decision comes after an unsuccessful attempt to secure a contract with a fourth AFL team following his delisting by Collingwood at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
A Career of Highs and Lows
The 32-year-old football star made his retirement announcement through an emotional social media post on Wednesday evening, reflecting on a professional journey that began as a father-son selection at the Sydney Swans. Mitchell acknowledged the conclusion of his childhood dream with both gratitude and realism, stating that his AFL playing days have now reached their natural endpoint.
Overcoming Significant Challenges
Mitchell's career path was anything but straightforward, featuring what he described as "extreme highs and devastating lows." After struggling to secure regular senior opportunities during his initial seasons with Sydney, Mitchell requested a trade to Hawthorn at the end of 2016 where he truly established himself as one of the competition's premier midfielders.
His remarkable 2018 Brownlow Medal victory represented the pinnacle of individual recognition, but this achievement was followed by a catastrophic broken leg that sidelined him for the entire 2019 season. This serious injury threatened to derail his career at what should have been his athletic peak.
Premiership Success and Final Chapter
Following Hawthorn's coaching transition under Sam Mitchell, Tom Mitchell moved to Collingwood where he experienced immediate team success. He played 26 games in his debut season with the Magpies, culminating in a memorable premiership victory in the 2023 grand final.
Despite this team achievement, Mitchell's final two seasons at Collingwood proved challenging, ultimately leading to his delisting. He openly expressed hope for another opportunity at a fourth club, but with no offers materialising, the veteran midfielder has made the difficult decision to retire.
Reflections on a Complete Football Journey
In his retirement statement, Mitchell emphasised that his greatest pride came not from individual accolades but from his unwavering commitment to the game. He highlighted the relentless work ethic that sustained his 14-year professional career, noting the early mornings, late finishes, and rare days off that defined his approach.
"I'm more proud of the approach to never give up under any circumstance," Mitchell wrote. "That's what gives me peace, knowing that I honestly could not have given any more."
The retiring star extended heartfelt thanks to his family, friends, teammates, coaches, sponsors, and mentors who supported him throughout his football journey. He particularly acknowledged the three clubs that shaped his career: Sydney, Hawthorn, and Collingwood.
Legacy of a Determined Competitor
Mitchell's career will be remembered for his extraordinary ball-winning ability, highlighted by several record-breaking possession games in the reserves before establishing himself as an AFL regular. His 2017 Brownlow Medal runner-up finish followed by his 2018 victory cemented his status as one of the competition's most prolific midfielders.
Hawthorn Football Club acknowledged Mitchell's contribution to the game with a brief statement congratulating him on his retirement. While his career didn't conclude with the fairytale finish he might have envisioned, Mitchell leaves the game as a respected premiership player, Brownlow medallist, and testament to perseverance through adversity.
