Valente announces AFL retirement

Luke Valente has announced a premature end to his AFL career handing back the famous Dockers 29 that was bestowed upon him.

Drafted at pick number 32 in the 2018 National Draft Valente has struggled to shake regular injuries in a bid to reach AFL fitness.

The 21-year-old also took a leave of absence from Fremantle last year due to personal reasons.

Valente said he had come to the realisation that he would not be able to fulfil his AFL dream.

“It was an incredibly difficult decision to make but after a long period of reflection, including discussions with the club, my family, friends and management, I believe that, in terms of my long-term health and well-being, it is the right thing to do.

“Even though that dream will remain unfulfilled, I’m indebted to the club for the opportunity it provided me and thank all the players, staff and Freo fans for the huge amount of support I received during my time at Fremantle.

“In the short-term, I’m heading back to SA to be with family and friends and continue studying for my uni degree."

IMAGE: Freo Dockers/ Instagram