TRAILBLAZER Daisy Pearce has called time on her AFLW playing career, hanging up the boots after an incredible 18 years at the top level.

The much-loved Demon announced the news on Wednesday, having shared her decision with teammates and coaches this week.

It marks the end of an historical chapter for Pearce, as well as the club and the competition, with the 34-year-old set to leave a legacy like no other.

As Melbourne’s inaugural AFL Women’s signing, Pearce played 55 games in the red and blue – all of which she captained – across six seasons. She sat out the 2019 season and welcomed twins, Sylvie and Roy, into the world, before returning to the game.

Her unmatched class, composure and leadership saw her claim three club best and fairest awards and three All Australian selections throughout her career (2017, 2018 and 2022 Season Six), while she was voted by her peers as the AFLW best captain on four occasions. 

Pearce’s achievements culminated last season, where she earned a hard-fought premiership medallion and turned the dream of holding Melbourne’s maiden AFLW premiership cup aloft with senior coach Mick Stinear into a reality.

In all that she has accomplished, Pearce’s impact and importance to women’s footy extends beyond the fabric of the iconic red and blue.

A 12-year stint with the Darebin Falcons – she joined the women-only football club at the age of 16 – saw her set the standard. She played a crucial role in the development of the AFLW competition and established herself as a pioneer of the women’s game.

The highly respected Pearce, who won 10 premierships and recorded just shy of 200 games in her time as a Falcon, was a prominent figure throughout the Women’s Exhibition Series and soon became a household name.

Reflecting on her career, Pearce expressed deep gratitude and acknowledged all who have been part of her extraordinary journey.

“Making the decision to retire was very difficult and something that took me a long time to work through,” Pearce said.

“Winning the flag last season almost made the decision harder as footy for me was never about the big moments or the trophies. Footy was about my team, the relationships, the environment and the little everyday moments that come with being part of a footy club. That is what I love and will miss the most.

“Footy has been a huge part of my life, forever really, but in terms of senior footy, it’s almost twenty years. It has played a big part in shaping who I am.

“In many ways, not playing anymore feels like I am giving up a part of me, my identity, but the end comes for everyone, and I just feel so lucky to have had the long, fulfilling career I’ve had and so many wonderful memories.

“I want to thank the Melbourne Football Club for everything they have done for me over the last decade. The players, coaches, club staff, volunteers and most importantly our passionate supporters who have been there for the journey.

“As a young girl, I dreamed of having an opportunity to play professional footy. It was a dream that didn’t seem possible. So, to have pulled on the red and blue Melbourne jumper and to have been a part of our first AFLW premiership in the first season where every AFL club had a women’s team representing it, and to know that this competition is only getting bigger and better, is something I cherish.

“I am proud of how much women’s footy has grown, privileged to have been involved in an era where we can appreciate where it’s come from and so excited that every young kid can now dream of a future in our sport.”

Relationships have been at the heart of Pearce’s career, few more special than that with Stinear.

As Melbourne’s inaugural AFLW coach, Stinear has been alongside Pearce since day-dot, with the two now sharing a formidable bond.

Having witnessed her passion and leadership first-hand, Stinear highlighted her unrivalled contribution to the club and the game.

“Daisy has been the greatest influence on our women’s program, creating, driving and inspiring our culture and on-field success,” Stinear said.

“At the core of our culture is our ability to be the best version of ourselves for the team, which takes hard work and a selfless approach, and we couldn’t have asked for a better role model in Daisy.

“Her ability to raise the bar year-on-year, continuing to grow and evolve to stay ahead of the competition, combined with her genuine care and the joy she gets out of helping develop others, has made her an incredible and much-loved captain of our club.

“Her on-field game awareness, spirit and leadership are unmatched in the competition. She has a unique ability to support and enhance teammates to execute their roles while consistently delivering on her role for the team, which all stems from a love of the game, genuine care for others, and a fierce determination to win.”

Melbourne CEO Gary Pert acknowledged the legacy Pearce leaves.

“Daisy has been an exceptional leader, team mate and player, and she will leave an ever-lasting impact on our club,” Pert said.

“She has provided exceptional leadership, both on and off the field, and has been integral to the development of not only our AFLW program, but the competition as a whole. She really is the epitome of the Demon Spirit.

“To see Daisy, alongside Mick, lifting our first-ever AFLW premiership cup last year was a moment we had all dreamed of – and one I’m sure we will remember forever. For Daisy, it caps off a remarkable journey and career.

“To Daisy, Ben, Sylvie and Roy, thank you. You will forever be part of the Melbourne Football Club family, and all hold a proud and special place in our club’s history.”