Unheralded Fremantle forward Sam Switkowski will retire at the end of 2026.
Switkowski has missed just one game this year, flying under the radar, but playing an important role in the Dockers' rise up the table, averaging 12 disposals and three tackles.
He has played 127 games since being selected with Pick 73 in the 2017 AFL National Draft, a number he will add to through Fremantle's finals campaign.
He informed teammates of his decision on Wednesday, with the decision driven by family.
Fremantle Executive General Manager of Football Joe Brierty said the Club understands Switkowski's decision.
“We've been having ongoing discussions with Sam and his management across the year as our focus was to look to extend his playing career with the club beyond 2026,” said Brierty.
“As it became clearer that Sam had decided to head back home to be around family and friends before starting the next phase of his life with Sav, and the impending arrival of their first son - we understood and respected his decision.
“It's an unusual situation when you have a player that has decided to retire while still playing some of his best football during his time at the club, but this is just a reflection of the calibre and character of the person that Sam is.
“Not for one moment in his time at Fremantle has Sam not invested 100 percent of himself as a player, teammate and leader.
“Sam will be remembered as a player that got every ounce out of his football career, played his role for the team week in week out and always put the Club first.
“Now it's time for Sam and Sav to prioritise their family and what comes next, knowing that they will forever be part of the Fremantle family. But before this, we know that Sam is committed to ending his career the right way as a key part of our playing group determined to give everything to the coming finals series.”
