Former Rising Star winner Jaidyn Stephenson has revealed losing passion for the game led to him retiring from the AFL aged just 25.
North Melbourne on Tuesday confirmed Stephenson, a former No.6 draft pick, will exit the league with a year to run on his contract.
"It became clear as this season finished that I wasn't as passionate about football as I once was," Stephenson said.
"I loved the friendships the game brings, but having thought things through during the post-season break, I know I'm ready to see what life's about away from AFL footy."
Stephenson burst on to the scene for Collingwood in 2018, booting 38 goals in his debut season to play an integral role in the Magpies' charge to the grand final.
He became the first Collingwood player to win the Ron Evans Medal as the AFL's Rising Star.
But things went awry in 2019, when his season was ended early by a 10-game suspension for placing bets on Collingwood games with which he was involved.
Stephenson was traded to North Melbourne at the end of the 2020 season amid Collingwood's attempt to clear salary-cap space. He ended with 76 goals in 54 games for the Magpies.
He joined the Kangaroos on a five-year deal, but had a patchy run at his second club as North were anchored to the bottom of the ladder.
In 2021, Stephenson broke his hip after he fell off his mountain bike in his backyard, having attempted to perform a trick after drinking at home with housemates.
He ultimately played 68 games for North, kicking 54 goals - including eight majors in 12 games this year.
"We appreciate that Jaidyn has made this decision in his best interests and that he is keen to explore other things in his life," North football boss Todd Viney said.
