AFL player Dougal Howard has retired after playing 145 games at the top level for St Kilda and Port Adelaide. Photo: St Kilda Football Club Facebook.
Former Wagga Tigers and East-Wagga Kooringal Hawk player Dougal Howard has played his final game of AFL football after 12 seasons at the top level.
Drafted at pick 46 in 2014, Howard has retired after 145 games, with 45 games for Port Adelaide before playing 100 with St Kilda.
The intercepting defender has been restricted to just nine games since the end of the 2024 season following a severe ACL tear that has failed to fully heal.
The 30-year-old was given a farewell game on Thursday night (20 August) against the Gold Coast Suns, marking 100 games for the Saints.
After announcing his retirement, Howard admitted it was difficult to say goodbye to the game he has been playing for more than 20 years.
“I was a bit emotional, to be honest, when I spoke to the boys,” Howard said.
“I’ve absolutely loved my time at St Kilda. I came to Melbourne and the club as a 23-year-old, so it’s been such a big part of me and my family’s lives.
“To have played most of my career here and seen the growth of the club over that time has been really special.
“This year has been a frustrating one. I’ve struggled a bit to get my body right and haven’t been able to get out there as consistently as I would’ve liked, but I know now is the right time to finish up my career at the Saints.
“I can’t thank all the coaches, teammates and staff I’ve worked alongside over the journey enough. These people not only allowed me to live the dream of playing professional football, but more importantly, many have become lifelong friends, which I’ll always be grateful for.”
St Kilda’s General Manager of Football Lenny Hayes thanked Howard for his contribution to the club since his move at the end of the 2019 season, stating his competitiveness and leadership made an impact both on and off the field.
“Dougal has been a massive part of our football club, and he’ll be missed around Moorabbin,” Hayes said.
“Through all the ups and downs, Dougal has always competed and put the team first.
“As his career has progressed, we’ve also seen him become an important leader and mentor for the younger players coming through.
“We thank Dougal, Georgia and Charlie for everything they’ve given to the club and the sacrifices they’ve made along the way and wish them all the very best for their next chapter.”