James Aish announces retirement

Fremantle defender James Aish has announced his retirement on Thursday after 12 seasons in the AFL.

Aish has called time on his outstanding career after 186 AFL games with three Clubs across three States.

The 29-year-old played 104 games with Fremantle (2020-2025), 50 with Collingwood (2016-2019) and 32 with Brisbane (2014-2015) after being drafted from SANFL Club Norwood.

“It’s been a privilege to have played across three really good teams in three states,” said Aish.

“It’s brought great challenges with moving, meeting new teammates and playing new positions, but it’s also been a blessing to meet great people along the way.

“When I look back on my career, the real value has been bringing joy to my family, friends, fans and staff."

Aish’s versatility and experience made him a reliable Mr Fix-it across his six seasons at Fremantle, playing a variety of roles including midfield, wing and half-back.

“’Aishy’ has been a highly valued and respected teammate since arriving at the Club in 2020,” said Executive Manager of Football Joe Brierty.

“His flexibility across a variety of roles - and calm head in any situation - made him a player our coaches trusted to play any role that the team needed.

“We thank Aishy for his contribution in more than 100 games at the Club and know that he will always be part of the Freo family.”

Born into a legendary football family in South Australia, Aish was a teenage star – playing in back-to-back league premierships with the ‘Redlegs’ in 2012 and 2013, the first at just 16 years of age.

He was drafted by Brisbane with pick No.7 in the 2013 AFL National Draft and played all but one game in an outstanding debut season. Traded to Collingwood after season 2015, he was a member of the Magpies' losing 2018 Grand Final team.

“I would’ve loved to tick off the ultimate prize, but playing finals footy are some of my favourite memories looking back and I’m sure there’s plenty more ahead at Freo," Aish said.

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