Three-time Richmond premiership forward Jason Castagna has announced his retirement from the AFL on Monday.
Castagna, 26, told teammates the news today, conceding that he had ultimately lost his love for the game.
“I love everything about this club and everyone in it, which has been the thing that has made this decision the hardest,” he said.
“This game is such a demanding one physically and mentally, and something I have given my all to since I first walked in the doors here and for the years before that.
“Now that I cannot give that same energy, it has made me realise that I would be letting the boys and the Club down if I just coasted through and did not give it my all until the end, which has led me to this call.”
The Northern Knights and Marcellin College product was selected with pick 29 in the 2014 AFL rookie draft, going on to play 134 senior matches and booting 127 goals.
After being tried out initially in his draft position as a defender, Castagna made his mark in his third season in the AFL as a forward.
Castagna said he was grateful for the connections he had made across his journey and for the opportunity to share his milestones and achievements with family and friends.
“One of my favourite things about playing AFL football has been that I got to go out on the MCG each week, warm-up with the Castagna name on my back, and represent my family,” he said. “I will always be proud of that.
“The connection I feel to this group and the past players that I spent time with here as well is something I will have forever and I am so grateful for that.”
Richmond football talent general manager Blair Hartley thanked the triple-premiership forward for his massive contribution to the club and selfless role across his career.
“Jason has been the ultimate teammate over the course of his 134 games at Richmond,” he said.
“He worked so hard on his craft to become an integral part of our team by playing a team-orientated and disciplined role in our forward line.
“Jason is so selfless and went about his business with minimum fuss. He set the tone with the pressure he created in the forward half of the ground through effort, grit and the ability to win or halve contests for the team.”
