Jaidyn Stephenson, a former forward for Collingwood and North Melbourne, has disclosed the cause of his unexpected AFL retirement.
With one year left on a lucrative contract with the struggling Kangaroos, the 25-year-old announced on Monday that he was ending his career after seven seasons and 122 games between two AFL clubs.
In his 122 games, Stephenson kicked 130 goals, including a career-high 38 during his thrilling Pies rookie season in 2018. He also helped the team reach the grand final against West Coast, where he booted two key goals.
Stephenson, however, stated in a statement issued by North Melbourne on Tuesday that he had lost interest in the game and wished to experience life outside of the AFL spotlight.
“As this season came to an end, it became evident that my enthusiasm for football had diminished,” he stated.
After giving it some thought over the post-season break, I’ve decided that I’m ready to see what life is like outside of AFL football, even if I valued the friendships the game brought.
“I’ve had the good fortune to perform at two clubs with illustrious histories: North Melbourne and Collingwood. I wish my former teammates well and want to thank the coaches, staff, volunteers, and supporters for their support.
The 2018 Rising Star award recipient was acknowledged by North Melbourne’s general manager of football, Todd Viney, for his contribution since joining the team in 2021.
We are grateful that Jaidyn is eager to pursue other opportunities in his life and that this decision was taken in his best interests,” Viney stated.
“We are grateful to Jaidyn, the Stephenson family, and parents Darren and Raquel for their four years of support of the club.”
Before losing favor for the majority of the second half of this season, Stephenson made 68 appearances for the relegated Roos, but he only managed eight victories.
One game short of former Fremantle midfielder Rhys Palmer’s 123, his eventual career total of 122 is the lowest by any player to receive the Rising Star award in its three-decade history.