Premiership Tiger suddenly retires at age 26

Despite being omitted from the senior side late last season, Castagna was contracted until the end of 2023 after signing a new deal in August.

“I love everything about this club and everyone in it, which has been the thing that has made this decision the hardest,” he said.

“This game is such a demanding one physically and mentally, and something I have given my all to since I first walked in the doors here and for the years before that.

“Now that I cannot give that same energy, it has made me realise that I would be letting the boys and the club down if I just coasted through and did not give it my all until the end, which has led me to this call.

“The connection I feel to this group and the past players that I spent time with here as well is something I will have forever and I am so grateful for that.”

Richmond’s general manager of football talent Blair Hartley thanked Castagna for his services.

“Jason has been the ultimate team mate over the course of his 134 games at Richmond,” he said.

“He worked so hard on his craft to become an integral part of our team by playing a team-orientated and disciplined role in our forward line.

“Jason is so selfless and went about his business with minimum fuss. He set the tone with the pressure he created in the forward half of the ground through effort, grit and the ability to win or halve contests for the team.

“He has had a terrific career, playing an important role in three premierships, and can walk away proud of his achievements as an AFL footballer. We wish Jason and his family all the best for the next chapter, and he will always be a Richmond man.”

Castagna was selected with pick No.29 in the 2014 Rookie Draft, going on to play 134 senior matches and boot 127 goals.

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