Hudghton's retirement follows his non-selection in the grand final team that went down to Geelong by two goals on Saturday.
On the day after the gut-wrenching loss, Hudghton interrupted Michael Roberts, who was hosting the function, to make an announcement.
"I think it's fitting that I announce my retirement today," he said.
"I haven't formally even spoken to the boys, but I thought it was a great opportunity to get up here and thank all of the fans for the fantastic support that you've given me over many, many years."
The already emotional crowd broke out into loud cheering for one of the club's favourite sons.
Hudghton, displaying the selflessness that saw him become one of the best, if underrated, backmen in the game, said the timing of his decision was based on a team mentality.
"At the end of the day, I've had an amazing journey with you guys," he said.
"Football and the St Kilda football club have just been unbelievable and the club is always bigger than the individual."
He finishes his career on 234 games and Hudghton said he left the game with nothing but pride.
"It is an amazing result from where I've come from, and I can walk away really proud that I've been at St Kilda football club all my career."
