MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 01: Harley Balic of the Demons looks on during a Melbourne Demons AFL training session at Gosch's Paddock on December 1, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Melbourne youngster Harley Balic has announced his retirement from the AFL, effective immediately.

The 21-year-old played four games for the Dockers in 2017 before switching to the Demons, although he’s failed to register a senior appearance with Melbourne this season.

Balic told the club’s website he’d lost his passion for the game.

“It was an easy decision in the end, as I’ve thought about it for a little while now,” Balic told Melbourne Media.

“It’s something I’m not going to regret and I’m very appreciative to Melbourne for letting me come to the club for a second chance.

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“I’ve always loved football, but my heart’s not in it and everything ends up being a grind and I think it’s just the right thing to do.

“The [club’s] VFL and AFL [teams] are both going to be successful this year and it’s something I’d love to be a part of, if I loved it, but unfortunately I don’t and it’s time to go out into the real world and see what else is out there for me.”

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