David Armitage's time at St Kilda is over after revealing to the playing group on Thursday morning that he will depart the club at the end of the season.
The 31-year-old has played 169 games over 13 seasons and coming second in the Trevor Barker Award for 2015 after averaging 28 disposals, 12 contested possessions and 6 clearances per game.
The veteran has been phased out of St Kilda's midfield in the last few years managing 15 senior games last season and only two this year.
Armitage will travel to Sydney with the team as they face the Swans at the SCG but is still sidelined with concussion symptoms.
"I felt embraced by the club the second I walked in the door," said Armitage.
"I feel very honoured to have played for this great club for 13 years and I'll treasure the friendships I have made along the way."
"I could not have achieved any of it without the support from my family, friends, teammates and coaches, and I thank them for everything they have done for me."
"I also want to thank St Kilda fans for their support. I have loved meeting so many of you over the years."
"I'm really excited about where this current group of players can take things. There are a lot of guys starting to make their mark and I will be watching closely over the coming seasons."
Armitage isn't yet hanging up his boots though and has previously been linked to a return to Queensland with the Gold Coast Suns.
"I'm not fully closing the door on football just yet, and who knows what will happen next, but I'm leaving the Saints knowing I gave absolutely everything I had."
St Kilda head of football Simon Lethlean had nothing but positives to say about the veteran.
"Dave should be incredibly proud of what he was able to achieve in his time at the Saints."
"His past few years have unfortunately been hampered by injury, but at his prime he was right up there with the best midfielders in the game."
"Despite the setbacks, he has continued to be a huge presence at the club, helping drive a culture that can deliver success in the coming years."
"We wish Dave, his fiance Jessie and son Parker all the best for the future. They will forever be part of the Saints family."
A celebration of Armitage's career will be held at the Trevor Barker Award on Wednesday September 11.
