St Kilda defender Dylan Roberton has announced his AFL retirement, effective immediately.
Roberton joined the club in 2013 from Fremantle, earning selection in the extended All-Australian squad in 2017.
However, in 2018, the 29-year-old suddenly collapsed on the field against Geelong in round four, taken straight to the hospital after suffering a heart scare.
He would be diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat, with the defender ruled out of the 2019 season before playing just once in 2020.
Roberton made the tough call on Friday, admitting that he needed to put his family and health first.
"I’ve come to a point where I need to put my family and future first,” Roberton said.
“But after lengthy discussions with my family and on the advice of my doctors, I’ve made the extremely hard decision to hang up the boots.
“I’m so grateful for the support of the entire St Kilda Football Club, particularly Dr Tim Barbour and Tony Brown, whose support and friendship has been unwavering over the past three years in particular.
“To my teammates and coaches at both St Kilda and Fremantle, thank you for giving me the opportunity to live out my dream.
“To the Saints fans, thank you for all your support and for embracing me as soon as I arrived at the club.
“Lastly, to Amy, the kids and all my family and friends, thank you for your support.”
Thanks for everything, Robbo ❤️
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) March 5, 2021
Dylan Roberton has announced his retirement from AFL, effective immediately.
Head coach Brad Ratten praised his tenacity throughout his tough period, confirming that the club would continue to support him as he transitions into an off-field role.
“Dylan is a much loved and well-respected member of our club,” Ratten said.
“He should be really proud of how he has dealt with everything life has thrown at him – it’s a real credit to his character.
“During his time off training, he’s really embraced the challenge of supporting the football program.
“Dylan has a great footy brain and he’ll remain an asset to our program for the remainder of 2021.
“He has our full support in this decision, and Dylan, Amy, Boston, Henry and Pip will always be part of the Saints family.”
Roberton was drafted to Fremantle with pick 49 in the 2009 AFL Draft, playing 37 games before his move to the Saints.
