Trent McKenzie

Two-club AFL defender calls time on career

The Power backman and inaugural member of the Gold Coast Suns is hanging up the boots.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Port Adelaide defender and inaugural Gold Coast Suns player Trent McKenzie has announced his retirement from the AFL.

Following 14 years and 165 games at the top level, the 32-year-old has decided to hang up the boots after an injury-hit final year with the Power.

McKenzie did not feature at AFL level this year for Port Adelaide due to form and a season-ending quad injury, with his most recent appearance coming in 2023 against GWS in last year's semi-final defeat.

The Western Jets junior played 59 games over seven years in South Australia after moving from the Suns at the end of the 2017 season.

McKenzie was listed to Gold Coast as a 17-year-old ahead of the club's AFL arrival in 2011, with the long-kicking defender playing 21 games in the Suns' first year in the league.

He would play 92 games across his first five games as a Sun before falling out of favour, eventually seeking a trade to Alberton.

“On behalf of Port Adelaide, I want to congratulate Trent on his AFL career,” Port Adelaide football boss Chris Davies said in a club statement.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 28: Trent McKenzie and Brynn Teakle of the Power celebrate during the 2023 AFL Round 07 match between the St Kilda Saints and the Port Adelaide Power at Marvel Stadium on April 28, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

“Trent has always been a popular figure amongst our playing group and has played some important roles for us during his time. He came to Port Adelaide to add experience and depth to our squad at a time when we needed it.

“His struggles with injury have been unfortunate, but his positive attitude and ability to lead have always held him in good stead.

“I wish Trent all the very best for his retirement.”

McKenzie's retirement is the first confirmed list departure for Port Adelaide, whose season came to an end last Friday in a loss to Sydney.

The club confirmed on Tuesday that duo Daniel Houston and Ivan Soldo are seeking trades back to Victoria this off-season.

Published by
Mitch Keating