St Kilda midfielder Jack Steven will step away from footy in order to focus on his mental health and wellbeing.
The 28-year-old is a four-time Trevor Barker Award winner, having been voted the club's best and fairest in 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018.
Only Bill Cubbins and Robert Harvey have won the award as many times, with Nick Riewoldt (six) top of the chart.
In a statement released by the club on Tuesday, Saints football general manager Simon Lethlean said Steven had the full support of the club.
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"Jack's decision to put his hand up and acknowledge that he needs some time away is a brave one," Lethlean said.
"He is a much-loved member of our playing group and has the support of all his teammates, his coaches and all St Kilda supporters."
Jack Steven will take a break away from the club in order to focus on his mental health and wellbeing.
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) February 26, 2019
After being recruited from the Geelong Falcons with pick 42 in the 2007 AFL Draft, Steven had to wait until round 19 of the 2009 AFL season to make his senior debut.
It was a memorable day as he helped his side upset reigning premiers Hawthorn in Launceston.
Steven has gone on to play 176 games for the club, and is the second most capped current Saint after Jarryn Geary (183).
When he will add to his games-played tally remains up in the air, with Lethlean saying the club wouldn't put a timeframe on Steven's return.
"Jack will use this time to take a break from the daily routine of training and concentrate on his health," Lethean said.
"I know he is desperate to get back to training and preparing for the season as quickly as possible, but the most important thing is making sure he is in the right headspace to do so.
"We ask that Jack be given the time and privacy to deal with this matter."
We're all behind you, Stuv ❤️ pic.twitter.com/z9N5ub3sJy
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) February 26, 2019
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