Brownlow Medallist Tom Mitchell Announces Retirement After Unsuccessful Fourth Club Bid
Brownlow medallist Tom Mitchell has announced his retirement from the AFL after an unsuccessful attempt to secure a contract with a fourth club, bringing an end to a distinguished 14-year career that included both remarkable achievements and significant challenges.
The 32-year-old midfielder was delisted by Collingwood at the conclusion of the 2024 season following two difficult campaigns since the club's 2023 premiership triumph. Despite expressing hope for another opportunity with a new club, Mitchell has now formally called time on his playing career.
A Career of Extremes
Mitchell, who played 207 games across Sydney, Hawthorn and Collingwood, reflected candidly on his journey in a statement released on Wednesday evening. "It's hard to let go of something you put absolutely everything into," he wrote. "My days playing in the AFL have come to an end, but what an amazing journey it was to live out my childhood dream."
The son of champion player Barry Mitchell, Tom began his career as a father-son selection at Sydney before establishing himself as one of the competition's premier ball-winners. His career trajectory included both spectacular highs and devastating setbacks.
"My career had some extreme highs and some devastating lows," Mitchell acknowledged. "There were the challenges. It didn't start the way I would've liked, living life on the fringe. My career was later threatened by getting badly injured and breaking my leg in half at the top of my game."
Individual Honours and Team Success
Mitchell's career highlights include winning the 2018 Brownlow Medal following a third-place finish the previous year. However, a serious leg fracture at the peak of his powers ruled him out for the entire 2019 season, representing a significant turning point in his career.
After requesting a trade from Sydney to Hawthorn following the 2016 grand final defeat, Mitchell continued to excel as a possession accumulator. His move to Collingwood in 2022 proved successful, with the midfielder playing every game in the club's 2023 premiership campaign.
"Going to the top of the mountain and winning a premiership is something I'll forever be grateful for," Mitchell reflected. "The individual accolades are amazing, but it's not so much about them."
Professional Approach and Legacy
Mitchell emphasised his commitment to excellence throughout his career, highlighting the professional standards that defined his approach to the game. "I'm more proud of the approach to never give up under any circumstance. Early starts, late finishes, and rarely a day off for the 14 years it lasted," he stated.
The midfielder's final seasons were hampered by injury concerns, with fitness issues limiting his opportunities in 2024 before Collingwood's decision to delist him in October.
In his farewell message, Mitchell expressed gratitude to the three clubs that shaped his career. "To the three amazing clubs I was fortunate enough to be a part of Sydney, Hawthorn and Collingwood, thank you for the incredible opportunities and the lifelong memories," he wrote.
Former teammate Taylor Adams paid tribute to Mitchell's career, writing on social media: "Congratulations on a great career. A pleasure to share the field with you. Enjoy retirement."
Mitchell's retirement marks the end of a career that exemplified both the rewards and challenges of professional sport, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity while achieving the highest individual and team honours in Australian football.