Richmond defender Jodie Hicks has announced to teammates that this year will be the final season of her AFLW career.
Hicks has played 58 AFLW games across eight seasons and two clubs (GWS and Richmond) since being selected with pick No. 5 overall at the 2017 AFL Women’s Draft.
The 28-year-old arrived at Richmond via trade prior to last season and played all 12 games including the Elimination Final in her debut year with the Club.
Hicks also played the opening six matches this year, averaging 12 disposals before a foot injury ruled her out for the past month.
The former Sydney Sixers cricketer said that after 10 years as a professional athlete, she felt like her “time was up”.
“I have been very lucky… I have made friends all over the world and had a lot of cool opportunities. It is something I never thought a little girl from Hay would be able to do,” she said.
“Coming to Richmond, I did not know if it was a really random move, but as soon as I walked in the door, it was the best thing that happened.
“Obviously, I still love playing footy, so I might just go tear up a local club, ideally, and play a bit of cricket.
“I have bloody loved it.”
Richmond Executive Head of Women’s Football, Kate Sheahan, congratulated Hicks on her AFLW career, adding it was an incredible effort to play two different sports at the highest level.
“Jodie should be incredibly proud of her AFLW career and everything she has accomplished across eight seasons at the elite level,” Sheahan said.
“We were thrilled to bring Jodie to Richmond in 2023 after she made the brave decision to move from Sydney, and she was able to play finals football last year.
“She has been a highly respected member of our team, and there is no doubt she will continue to make her mark in sport beyond this year, with her game sense and deep understanding of both football and cricket, lending itself to exciting prospects.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club, I would like to wish Jodie all the very best for the future.”
The former Sydney Sixers cricketer's retirement will be effective from the end of the season.
