Hard-nosed Brisbane midfielder Mitch Robinson has taken to social media to announce that season 2022 would be his last as a Lion.
Robinson failed to suit up for Chris Fagan's side during their recent semi-final victory over Melbourne as well as Friday night's preliminary final defeat to Geelong, bowing out in secret during Brisbane's thrilling week one win against Richmond.
In a post from his Instagram account on Friday night, Robinson expressed that while it had been an "absolute privilege" turning out in maroon, blue and gold, there was devastation attached to his uncharacteristically quiet bow out.
"This was my last photo as a Lion," Robinson wrote.
"Happy beating the Tiges but sad knowing it'd be my last at the Gabba.
"Devastated Fages wouldn't allow me to announce this in person to the supporters, but I guess that's footy...
"Thank you all for the last 8 years, I'll never forget the love you all showed me, Emma and my kids.
"I left it all out there every single game, I love you all."
Across the course of his 247 games at AFL level with both Brisbane and Carlton, Robinson earned his reputation as a fiery customer whose loyalty to those alongside him could never be denied.
Though far from the most skilled player in the competition, or the most composed, the Tasmanian's love of the contest was roundly noted by all and sundry, with the 33-year-old acting as the average punter's representation on the oval.
While a missile when the footy was there to be won, the tattooed hardman's generosity with fans, especially children, often left many with smiles following chance encounters.
A kid himself at heart, Robinson's openness to speak about his challenges with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) via his YouTube channel 'RobVlogs' has also aided the shattering of stigma surrounding the oft-misunderstood condition.
Robinson's rebirth in Brisbane came after his tenure at Princes Park came to a close in 2014 following exactly 100 games as a Blue.
The Hobart native was selected with the 40th pick of the 2018 National Draft, the peak of his playing days coming in 2015 when he claimed Brisbane's best and fairest prize in 2015.
