DEFENDER Maddy Keryk has announced her retirement after nine seasons in the AFLW.

Keryk played a total of 56 AFLW games since debuting for Carlton in 2017 and has the rare claim of being a foundation player at two different clubs.

The 29-year-old made the move to Alberton as part of a trade ahead of the 2023 season after two years with the Blues and five with Geelong, going on to play nine games for Port Adelaide.

One of Carlton’s inaugural co-vice-captains in 2017 in a team captained by now Power coach Lauren Arnell, Keryk also featured as part of Geelong’s leadership group during her time at that club.

Primarily deployed as a defender, she showed her versatility during her time at Alberton, spending time in the forward line and kicking her only three career goals in the last two seasons.

Maddy Keryk celebrates a goal in the final round of the 2024 home and away season. Image: AFL Photos.

Keryk said she would not miss the countdown to pre-season training, but her retirement had not yet sunk in.

“I’m very grateful to have been able to play in the AFLW from literally the first match,” she said.

“It’s incredible to see how far the game has come in just nine seasons and the impact it has in the community with so many more opportunities for young girls and women to play.

“I feel so fortunate to have been able to play at Carlton, Geelong and most recently at Port Adelaide – all great clubs, where I've met a lot of great people and made great memories along the way.

“It’s been amazing to be part of the early years at Port Adelaide and to see the reward starting to come for the work we’ve put in to building a culture and a group that will take the club forward.

“I’ll miss running out with the girls but I’m excited for what’s next in my future.”

Maddy Keryk played a total of 56 AFLW games since debuting in 2017. Image: Matt Sampson.

Head of AFLW Shane Grimm congratulated Keryk for her contribution to the club and to the game. 

“I’d like to congratulate Maddy for all she has achieved in her AFLW career,” said Grimm. 

“She has been a great role model and teammate to those around her at our club.

“Not many have played more than 50 AFLW games and made an impact at three clubs, yet Maddy did, and did it in her unassuming way.

“We wish her well for the future. She will always be part of the Port Adelaide family.” 

Keryk follows fellow defender Ange Foley into retirement.