AFLW Star Izzy Huntington Announces Retirement
The 27-year-old former number one draft pick will retire after this Sunday's match against the Gold Coast.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
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Izzy Huntington, the 2017 number one draft pick, has announced her retirement from the AFLW. Her final professional match is scheduled for this Sunday against the Gold Coast.
Why it matters
Huntington concludes her career to prioritise university studies and opportunities in medical research. Her departure follows a nine-year tenure marked by significant athletic achievements and persistent injury challenges.
Huntington concludes her nine-year AFLW career with 60 games played. Her time in the league included overcoming three ACL injuries, including a period of 616 days between games prior to her 2023 debut for the Giants.
The players
Izzy Huntington
She is a 27-year-old AFLW athlete who achieved Rising Star and All-Australian honours during her career.
Western Bulldogs
This is an Australian rules football club that previously employed Huntington before she requested a trade in 2022.
Greater Western Sydney Giants
This is the professional club where Huntington made her debut in 2023 and where she will complete her final career match.
The details
Huntington, who played for the Western Bulldogs and the Greater Western Sydney Giants, informed her teammates of her decision on Wednesday. She is transitioning into the medical research field, having completed a Bachelor of Science degree with an honours thesis focused on 3D printed synthetic kidneys.
Timeline
2017: Huntington was drafted as the number one pick.
2020: Huntington claimed league honours at the Western Bulldogs.
2022: Huntington requested a trade to the Giants.
2023: Huntington made her debut for the Giants.
1 November 2026: Huntington plays her final game against Gold Coast.
Season Trajectory
Huntington's departure from the Giants roster alters the team's leadership structure for the remainder of the season. Her retirement reflects a broader trend of elite athletes balancing professional sporting commitments with long-term academic and scientific careers.
The Giants will need to adjust their rotation strategy for the match against the Gold Coast following Huntington's announcement. Fans can expect a final appearance from the veteran before she pivots permanently to medical research.
The takeaway
Huntington's transition highlights the importance of dual-career planning for professional athletes. Her success in both elite sport and academic medical research provides a blueprint for players looking to prepare for life beyond the field.
Further reading
For more updates on the league, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Afl.
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