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Sport Nation
End of an era: Docherty retires after facing “every challenge”
Andrew Slevison • July 22nd, 2025 1:56 pm
Carlton’s Sam Docherty has announced his AFL retirement.
The 31-year-old will play his final game for the Blues against Hawthorn on Thursday night.
Docherty, a former club captain, has opted to step away from the game after 14 seasons having initially been drafted by Brisbane back in 2011.
He made the All-Australian team in 2017 and won the 2016 John Nicholls Medal as Carlton’s best and fairest.
“When I was a kid my entire family used to climb into a van and drive from Phillip Island to the MCG for Round 1 every year. For me to get the chance to go on and play in those games, and also captain the club that I grew up supporting – I can honestly say it’s a dream come true,” Docherty said via a club statement.
“To have built the most incredible friendships over the last 14 years which I will take with me for the rest of my life, I am so incredibly thankful and I appreciate everyone who has supported me through it all.
“Perspective is such a valuable thing, and that is what I am most grateful for in my career. When my career started I thought a footballer had to define themselves by the accolades they achieved: while I am certainly grateful for those that have come my way, I will leave this game with so much more.
“The experiences I have had not just in my football career, but in life, have moved the goal posts for me – while there has been no shortage of challenges, because of what I have been through I have been allowed to meet so many amazing people and have had the opportunity to have an impact far greater than kicking or handballing a football ever could.
“My wife Nat night has been my rock through everything: I knew when I faced every challenge, we would be doing it together. I cannot thank her enough for her support and I can’t wait to begin the next chapter of our lives together with Ruby and Myles.”
‘Doc’ served as co-captain alongside Patricks Cripps from 2019 to 2021 and has done a mountain of community work, leading to the Jim Stynes Community Leadership award in 2023.
He overcame many an obstacle in his career to reach 184 games, including two ACL injuries and testicular cancer.
Docherty will end his career with 171 games in navy blue and 13 games for the Lions to his name.
