Hawthorn and Geelong premiership winner Isaac Smith has called time on his career, deciding to hang up the boots at the end of the current season with the Cats.
Smith, a triple premiership player for the Hawks and a Norm Smith Medal winner at Geelong, will retire with one final premiership pursuit in the hoops.
The Albury product will retire with over 270 games to his name in a career that spanned 13 seasons after being recruited as a mature-aged talent through the 2010 National Draft.
Smith made his debut with Hawthorn in 2011 and would be part of the club's famous three-peat from 2013-2015, with the speedy midfielder playing a total of 210 games in the brown and gold.
At the end of the 2020 season, Smith departed the Hawks in favour of a move to Geelong, where he has since added a fourth premiership - claiming best-afield honours in the Cats' 2022 grand final victory.
Smith announced the decision on Thursday morning to call time on his decorated career, with one final push for a flag still alive.
“I am so fortunate to have been given the opportunity to play AFL football, it is every kids dream growing up and to have that play out for me across the last 13 seasons at two great clubs is something really special,” Smith said in a club announcement.
“From the time I walked into Hawthorn, and now being at Geelong, I have always felt right at home at both organisations and to this day have made some very special friendships and bonds with a lot of people.
“I would like to thank everyone along the journey, in particular my wife Candice and children Isla and Emmett. I will forever be indebted to you for the support you have shown me.”
Smith has played 67 games over three seasons with the Cats, including 19 matches so far this season.
Geelong remain in the finals hunt with three rounds to go, with Smith to hold down an integral role under coach Chris Scott as the Cats look to defend their premiership title.
Cats football boss Simon Lloyd spoke on Smith's impact over a short time at Kardinia Park, acknowledging his character and personality.
“Ever since walking into the Cattery, Isaac has been an important member of the Club both on and off the field, highlighted by his strong mindset, competitive nature and balanced perspective on life and the game,” Lloyd said.
“Over his three seasons at the Cats, we have been blessed to have Isaac wear the Geelong hoops, he is a unique individual and his ability to bring energy around the Club is something that is going to be missed.
“On behalf of the Club we would like to thank Isaac, his wife Candice and his kids Isla and Emmett for their contribution and dedication to the Cats.”
Smith is expected to face Collingwood on Friday night as Geelong look to keep their season alive.
