Kiera Whiley is hanging up the boots, with the 20-year-old informing her teammates this week that she is retiring from the game effective immediately.

The powerful midfielder cited passions and priorities away from football as the reason behind her decision ahead of the 2025 AFLW season.

“I’ve loved playing football over the years, but its role in my life has changed over the last few months,” Whiley said.

“While I’ve loved my time at the Saints and look forward to cherishing the friendships I’ve made here for many years, I know the time is right for me to step away.

“I’d like to thank everyone at St Kilda for making me feel welcome from the second I was drafted. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to have this experience, and I wish the whole club nothing but the best for the future.”

General Manager of AFLW, Jessie Mulholland, said the club fully supported Whiley’s decision. 

“While of course we would’ve loved to have Kiera on our list moving forward, we’re really proud of her for making the tough but right decision for her future,” Mulholland said.

“Whether it’s a short or long time, we know football is only a portion of our lives, and we support all our players to invest in their lives and happiness beyond football, just as Kiera has done here. 

“Kiera will always be part of the Saints family and we look forward to seeing her cheering us on this season.”

St Kilda will now look to fill the vacant list spot prior to the start of the season.