Irishman Martin Clarke has decided not to pursue a new playing contract and will return to his homeland after three seasons with Collingwood.
Clarke, who turns 22 in November, played 46 AFL games with the Magpies after he came to Collingwood at the end of 2006 from County Down on a two-year international rookie contract.
He made his AFL debut in round 12, 2007 against Sydney after being temporarily elevated to the senior list due to a long-term injury, and earned a permanent spot on the senior list for the 2008 and 2009 seasons.
Clarke’s last AFL game was against Sydney in round 12 this year, and he was named as an emergency for the preliminary final against Geelong.
He will return to Ireland to study teaching and be with his family.
“We sincerely thank Martin for his contribution and commitment to the Collingwood Football Club over the past three seasons”, said Collingwood chief of football Geoff Walsh.
“He’s an outstanding talent who is very highly regarded by his peers and everyone at the club, and he will be missed.
“I’m sure Marty will be successful in his future endeavours, and on behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to wish him the very best back in Ireland,” Walsh added.
Clarke’s decision to return home to Ireland comes in the same week that club great Anthony Rocca announced his retirement after 15 seasons and 242 games at the elite level.
