Stefan Martin has drawn the curtain on a decorated 15-year AFL career, announcing his retirement from the game.
It has been a memorable journey for the 35-year-old, who first entered the system as a mature-age pre-season Draft selection in 2007, and finished as a Club best and fairest and 200-game player.
Martin will be remembered as a combative, hard-working ruckman who mastered his craft on the field, and a fine ambassador and role model for the game.
He hangs up the boots with 203 games to his name – 57 with Melbourne, 133 for the Brisbane Lions and 13 for the Bulldogs.
“It has truly been an amazing ride, and I’m extremely grateful to have played at the highest level for 15 seasons,” Martin said.
“It’s been a privilege to experience playing at three terrific organisations, and I’d like to personally thank everyone who has helped me over my career at the Melbourne, Brisbane and the Western Bulldogs football clubs.
“I am also appreciative of the fans who have supported me throughout my playing journey.
“After being a late starter to the game of AFL, to play 200 AFL games is something I’m enormously proud of.
“I leave the game with so many happy memories, strong bonds, lifelong friendships, and the knowledge that the game has made me a better person.
“I can finish up knowing that I gave absolutely everything I had, and I hope I was able to leave a positive impact on the three clubs I represented, and the team-mates I played alongside.”
A talented basketballer growing up, Martin made the switch to AFL as a 19-year-old, and after a few short seasons he had caught the eye of Demons’ recruiters while playing for Sandringham in the VFL.
A pre-season Draft opportunity presented late in 2008, and went on to play five seasons at the Demons, including a breakout 2011 campaign, before he was traded to Brisbane at the end of 2012.
Martin enjoyed his best football with the Lions over eight seasons, highlighted by him winning the Club’s Best and Fairest award in 2015.
He arrived at the Bulldogs at the end of 2020, providing strong support to the Club’s developing rucks over two seasons, and playing a role in the team’s push to the 2021 Grand Final.
“We admire Stef for everything he has achieved during his AFL career,” said Bulldogs’ General Manager of List and Recruiting, Sam Power.
“We were lucky enough to work closely with Stef at the Bulldogs in the last two years, and while injuries have limited his on-field impact, he was still able to play a crucial role in setting up our 2021 season and ultimately helping us get to the Grand Final.
“His leadership and influence can’t be overstated, in particular the guidance he provided the likes of Tim English, Jordon Sweet and Sam Darcy.
“Stef can be proud of his contribution to the AFL, and we wish him all the best with the next phase of his life.”
