After 345 games across 19 seasons, Todd Goldstein has announced his retirement from AFL football. 

A master of his craft, Goldstein finishes his career as one of the premier ruckmen of the modern era – first selected by North Melbourne at pick No.37 overall in the 2016 National Draft, the 201cm star appeared 315 times for the Kangaroos before joining Essendon for his last two seasons.

Goldstein was a devoted Dons supporter growing up and relished the opportunity to play for his boyhood Club, racking up 30 games in the red and black and serving as a mentor to several of the Club’s emerging talents as a respected senior figure.

An All-Australian and Syd Barker Medallist from his time with the Roos, Goldstein also holds a significant all-time record with the most hitouts in the history of the V/AFL at the time of his retirement (10,608 total).

Goldstein will serve as a part-time ruck coach for the Bombers in 2026, maintaining his involvement with the Club.

“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to play this game at the highest level,” Goldstein said. 

“Growing up an Essendon supporter and having the opportunity to fulfill my childhood dream in the last years of my career has been a dream come true, and given me an experience I never thought I’d get.

“I want to thank the North Melbourne family for helping me grow as a player and person, I will forever treasure being Shinboner No.947.

"I’ve been incredibly lucky to learn from and play alongside so many wonderful people who I am grateful to call my friends. To all the fans who’ve supported me through the highs and lows, your support and loyalty have meant more than you’ll ever know.”

The vast majority of Goldstein’s career was coached across both clubs by Brad Scott, who lauded the ruckman for his service to the game and the standard he set as one of the competition’s most revered characters during his time in the game. 

“It was a privilege to coach Todd for 312 games across his career at North Melbourne and Essendon,” Scott said.

“To play 345 games primarily in the demanding ruck position is a testament not just to his conditioning, but to his sheer love for the contest. Todd was one of the most resilient players I have ever seen. He did whatever the team required and he set the standard for ruckmen for more than a decade.

“For years, he was the engine that powered his midfields. Just as importantly, he was a giant on the training track and in the change rooms. Even late in his career, watching him mentor our young big men at Essendon was proof of his genuine selflessness. 

“He arrived at North Melbourne as a hard worker who wanted to be the best he could. He retires as a champion of the game and one of the best ruckmen of the last 20 years. Beyond just his football achievements, the greatest joy has been watching him develop from the young talent to the quality man he is today. 

“We congratulate Todd, his wife Felicity, as well as his children Hayley, Charlie, Olivia, Mackenzie and Lachlan for their incredibly positive influence throughout his playing career. We’re excited to be keeping Todd on board as a part-time ruck coach to impart more wisdom upon the boys in 2026.”