Thank You, Tom Emmett 💙
After 50 SANFL games and 66 goals in the Double Blue, Tom Emmett’s time at Sturt comes to a close following the 2026 season. He fittingly brought up his 50-game milestone on Grand Final Day, kicking three goals at Adelaide Oval.
Tom runs his own business that is growing and he needs to devote time to this. Furthermore with the way Tom plays his football he has succumbed to several concussions and his health is also a major factor in his decision to retire.
A Payneham Norwood Union Falcons junior, Tom made his League debut for Sturt in Round 6, 2022 as player #1281, quickly establishing himself as an exciting and uncompromising forward. His breakthrough season was recognised with the Len Fitzgerald Best Emerging Talent Award, before he was selected by Fremantle with Pick 41 in the 2022 AFL National Draft.
Tom went on to play 15 AFL games for Fremantle and 28 games for Peel Thunder, including the 2024 WAFL Premiership, before returning home to the Double Blues. His impact was immediate, becoming a 2025 League Premiership Player and going on to earn selection in Sturt’s 2026 Leadership Group and the 2026 South Australian State Team.
Renowned for his physicality, competitiveness and ability to impact both through the midfield and forward of the ball, Tom brought enormous energy to the Double Blues every time he took the field.
🗣 Senior Coach Marty Mattner said:
“Tom has made a huge impact on our football club in a relatively short period of time. He plays the game with an intensity and competitiveness that his teammates love, and he’s someone who has always been prepared to put his body on the line for the team. “To see him return to Sturt, become a premiership player, represent South Australia and grow into a leader within our group has been really special. We’re extremely proud of what Tom has achieved and grateful for everything he has given to the Club.”
From emerging talent to AFL footballer, WAFL and SANFL Premiership Player, State representative and Sturt leader, Tom’s football journey has already been a remarkable one.
We thank Tom Emmett for his commitment, toughness and contribution to the Double Blue and wish him all the very best for what comes next.
Thank you, Tommy. 💙🩵
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