Jodie Hicks, star defender for the Richmond Tigers, has announced her retirement from elite football at the close of the current AFLW season.

A homegrown sporting star, Hicks stunned team mates by making the announcement to them in the Richmond change room, which was recorded and released by the club to fans last week.

The 28-year-old’s journey from Hay to the top tier of two national sports - AFLW and professional cricket - has been a source of pride across the district, especially amongst sport fans, who have watched her rise to the elite level.

Hicks, who was selected with pick No. 5 in the 2017 AFL Women’s Draft, has played 58 games across eight seasons with Greater Western Sydney and Richmond.

She also spent time as a professional cricketer with the Sydney Sixers. Announcing her decision to teammates, Hicks reflected on the significance of her achievement for a regional athlete, hinting that she may soon be returning to the local sporting scene.

She confirmed her decade as a professional athlete was coming to a close, stating that her “time was up”.

The pride in her regional roots was clear, with Hicks reflecting on her unique journey.

“It’s not sad,” Hicks quipped after dropping the retirement bombshell on fellow Tigers team mates.

“I have been very lucky. I have made friends all over the world and had a lot of cool opportunities. It is something I never thought a little girl from Hay would be able to do,” she said.

“Coming to Richmond, I did not know if it was a really random move, but as soon as I walked in the door, it was the best thing that happened.

“Obviously, I still love playing footy, so I might just go tear up a local club, ideally, and play a bit of cricket.

“I have bloody loved it.” Her mention of potentially playing for a local club next season will no doubt spark excitement and speculation among local football and cricket clubs across the region.

Hicks played all 12 games in her debut season with the Tigers in 2023, including their Elimination Final, and played the opening six matches this year before a foot injury sidelined her for the final month.

Richmond Executive Head of Women’s Football, Kate Sheahan, acknowledged Hicks' unique contribution to the club and the league. “

Jodie should be incredibly proud of her AFLW career and everything she has accomplished across eight seasons at the elite level,” Sheahan said.

“We were thrilled to bring Jodie to Richmond in 2023. “She has been a highly respected member of our team, and there is no doubt she will continue to make her mark in sport beyond this year, with her game sense and deep understanding of both football and cricket, lending itself to exciting prospects.

“On behalf of everyone at the Club, I would like to wish Jodie all the very best for the future.”

The former Sydney Sixers cricketer's retirement will be effective from the end of the season.