Sport

Shepparton’s Will Brodie calls time on decade-long AFL career

By Callum Farquhar

Oct 19, 2026

Will Brodie has called time on his AFL career. Photo: Port Adelaide FC

The Power has gone out on Will Brodie’s AFL career.

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After a decade in the AFL system, beginning when the Shepparton Football Netball Club junior was selected at pick nine in the 2016 national draft, Brodie has laced up the boots at the top flight for the last time.

Spanning across three clubs in three different states, Brodie’s journey was testing and resilient.

Brodie spent five years at Gold Coast, but was unable to break through for consistent opportunity, totalling 25 games at the Suns before making the move to Fremantle.

Will Brodie at the Gold Coast Suns. Photo by AAP

Spending four years at the Dockers, Brodie’s break out season was his first in purple, playing a career-high 24 games and averaging career-high disposals (26.8 a game) and 5.3 tackles.

However, the Bears product would fall out of favour across 2023 to 2025, unable to crack Fremantle’s best 22 for two of those years, before seeking a move to Port Adelaide in last year’s off-season.

Moving to the Power under Josh Carr’s tutelage, the previous Fremantle midfield coach Brodie flourished, the 28-year-old tasted the AFL level again after multiple years out of favour, pulling on the teal, black and white on two occasions in 2026.

Brodie played in round three against West Coast and had a farewell game of sorts in round 24, his 56th and final match of his career a 10-point win over Essendon.

The midfielder stated he was grateful for his time spent in the AFL system as his retirement announcement was revealed on Friday.

“After a decade in the AFL, now feels like the right time to hang up the boots,” Brodie said.

“I’m thankful to Gold Coast, Fremantle and Port Adelaide for all taking a chance on me, and helping me live out my dream.

Will Brodie playing for Fremantle in his breakout 2022 campaign. Photo by GARY DAY

“I’ve met so many amazing people along the journey, many of whom will stay lifelong friends.

“Thank you to my teammates and coaches at all three clubs and, most importantly, to my family, especially my partner Kate and daughter Mila, for the sacrifices they have made for me and my career.

“I’m really looking forward to this next phase of life.”