PORT ADELAIDE has farewelled Matthew Broadbent and Aidyn Johnson after informing the pair their contracts would not be renewed for 2020.
Broadbent played 171 AFL games, kicking 52 goals since making his debut in 2009.
Recruited from Woodville-West Torrens with pick 38 in the 2008 AFL National Draft, the 28-year-old became a reliable option off half back.
After a couple of difficult seasons where his time on the field was limited by injury, Broadbent returned this season to play 10 games at AFL level.
“Matthew has shown remarkable resilience over the last couple of years in fighting back from a number of serious injuries,” said General Manager – Football, Chris Davies.
“At his peak Matthew’s hands were some of the cleanest in the competition and his ability to use the ball by foot was outstanding.
“He’s been a terrific servant of the club but with depth in the defensive area of the ground, we have made the difficult decision to part ways.”
Aidyn Johnson celebrates kicking a goal against the West Coast Eagles.
Johnson has played 11 AFL games and kicked eight goals since making his debut in Round 5, 2017.
The Bendigo Pioneers product came to Alberton with pick 45 in the 2015 AFL national draft.
At SANFL level, the 21-year-old has proven to be a dynamic small forward with an eye for goal, booting 42 majors in 47 games.
“Aidyn has shown signs of what he is capable of throughout his time at the club, and at times this has been of a very high standard,” said Davies.
“No doubt he has been frustrated that he couldn’t produce on a more consistent basis, but he has worked hard and we wish him all the best for the future.”
Davies said both Broadbent and Johnson would always be part of the Port Adelaide family.
“This is a tough time of the year where we farewell people who have made considerable contributions,” he said.
“We thank both Matt and Aidyn for what they’ve done whilst at Port Adelaide and I’m sure our people will join me in wanting the best for them in the next chapter of their careers.”
