Steven retires from AFL

Geelong midfielder Jack Steven has retired from the AFL with one year remaining on his contract.

Announced on Thursday, the 30-year-old’s decision comes after he was involved in talks with the Cats over a settlement following a tough season on and off the field.

“We are happy for Jack that he has made this decision and wish him well in his future,” Geelong football manager Simon Lloyd said.

“Jack had an outstanding career and we enjoyed having him play with us this year.

“It’s great that Jack is back home on the Bellarine and we look forward to seeing him enjoy the post-football part of his life.”

Steven was granted his wish to be traded to Geelong a year ago after 11 seasons at St Kilda, during which he won four best-and-fairest awards.

He managed nine matches for the Cats in 2020 but suffered a hamstring injury late in the season and missed the finals series.

He played 192 matches in total.

In May, Steven was stabbed in the chest in an incident that led to a police investigation and delayed his return after the season shutdown period.

No polices charges were laid.

Steven joins premiership stars Gary Ablett and Harry Taylor in retiring from Geelong this year.