As Stacey Livingstone moves into retirement, the AFLW and Collingwood fans alike will forever celebrate her legacy.
Stacey Livingstone, one of the most respected and formidable defenders in the AFL Women’s league, has officially
announced her retirement from football. After a celebrated career with the Collingwood Football Club, Livingstone
leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and unmatched commitment to the game.
A Storied Career.
Livingstone’s journey to AFLW stardom began long before she donned the black and white of Collingwood. She was a
key figure in the early days of the AFLW, joining the league when women’s football was still carving out its identity.
From the moment she stepped onto the field, it was clear that Livingstone was not just a player—she was a force to
be reckoned with.
Joining the Pies in 2017, Livingstone quickly made her mark with her incredible athleticism, tenacious tackling, and
ability to shut down opposition forwards. As a key defender, her job was to make life as difficult as possible for the
opposition, and she did so with a level of intensity and skill that made her one of the premier backline players in the
competition.
Defensive Masterclass.
Throughout her AFLW career, Livingstone was renowned for her composure under pressure and her leadership on
the field. She was a natural at reading the play, intercepting crucial passes, and shutting down high-profile forwards.
Her defensive prowess was matched by her ability to push forward when the situation called for it, contributing to
her team’s scoring opportunities when needed.
Livingstone’s role at Collingwood was always more than just footballing skills; she was a mentor, a leader, and a
steadying influence for the younger players in the squad. Her presence in the backline helped shape the defensive
strategies of the entire team, and her high standards set the tone for what it meant to be a Collingwood player.
A Leader Both On and Off the Field.
Livingstone’s leadership qualities extended beyond her performances on match days. Throughout her time at the
club, she was a key figure in fostering a culture of support and respect within the team. Her work ethic and
professionalism became a benchmark for her teammates, and she was often called upon for advice and guidance
both on and off the field.
Her influence extended into the broader AFLW community as well. Livingstone was vocal about the importance of
women’s sport and was a passionate advocate for the continued growth and recognition of AFLW players. She used
her platform to support initiatives aimed at developing young talent and increasing the visibility of the women’s
game. Her voice and influence were critical in helping shape the next generation of AFLW stars.
A Final Farewell.
Announcing her retirement, Livingstone expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play at the highest level and for
the support of her teammates, coaches, and the Collingwood fans. “It’s been an incredible journey,” she said. “I’ve
been fortunate to play with and against some of the best players in the world, and to do it at a club as special as
Collingwood has been an honor. I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved together as a team.”
While she is stepping away from competitive football, Livingstone’s legacy in the AFLW will endure. Her
contributions to the game, both on and off the field, have helped to shape the AFLW into the competition it is today,
and she leaves behind a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.
Looking Ahead.
As Livingstone moves on from the field, her future remains bright. The AFLW will undoubtedly continue to benefit
from her wisdom and experience in various capacities, whether through coaching, mentoring, or her continued
advocacy for women’s sport. Livingstone’s story is one of passion, dedication, and breaking down barriers, and she
will always be remembered as a true pioneer of the AFLW.
In the years to come, fans and players alike will look back on Livingstone’s career with admiration, thankful for the
standard she set and the incredible journey she took with Collingwood. It’s not just her skills as a footballer that will
be remembered, but her heart, her leadership, and her unwavering dedication to the sport.
