Port Adelaide defender Alipate Carlile calls time on career

Port Adelaide defender Alipate Carlile has announced his retirement from AFL football.

Carlile played 167 games for the Power after making his debut in 2006.

The 29-year-old was recruited with pick No.44 in the 2005 National Draft.

He has been one of the club's most important key defenders over the past decade, however, he managed just two matches this season due to several injuries, which ultimately prompted him to call an end to his career.

“It’s been a bit disappointing – the injuries – but it’s helped me transition into life after football,” Carlile told the club's website.

“The injury last year was painful, but I thought I’d be able to get back from it. Unfortunately I was chasing my tail all pre-season and in the end it was a straightforward decision for me.

“Kenny and I had a real honest chat about it and we both walked out the room smiling, because we both knew it was the right decision.

“Port Adelaide gave me an opportunity back in 2005 and I’m really lucky to play my whole career at this club – to be a one-club player – have 100 games and my name on the locker, it’s all really significant to me.

“It’s been a learning curve the whole way through, it’s been a great journey."

Carlile will continue working in the football industry through his work with multicultural programs.