Inaugural Hawthorn AFLW player Kate McCarthy has announced her retirement from the league following seven seasons at the highest level.

The 30-year-old played 42 AFLW games since being drafted by Brisbane in 2017.

She then joined St Kilda in 2020 before signing with the Hawks in 2022.

McCarthy was Brisbane’s leading goalkicker in 2017 and also made the All Australian team in that same year.

At the Saints, she was named in their leadership group in 2020 before transitioning into the role of co-vice-captain in 2021.

After seven years in the AFLW, the Brisbane product said the time was right to move on.

“As an inaugural AFLW player who has been playing at the highest level for seven seasons, I feel the time is right to pursue other interests,” McCarthy said.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunities and friendships that footy has provided me. I want to thank my family, my partner, my amazing teammates and all the coaches and staff members at Hawthorn, St Kilda and Brisbane.”

Reflecting on her time at Hawthorn, McCarthy was grateful to be given an opportunity to represent the brown and gold.

“While my journey at the Hawks has been short, I have absolutely loved my time at the club,” she said.

“I cannot thank Bec Goddard, Justin Reeves, the support staff and everyone involved in the club enough for their guidance and support.

“Hawthorn is an amazingly professional club and I know the women’s team will continue to grow in the years to come.

“I will be smiling from the sidelines as I watch history continue to unfold.”

Hawthorn AFLW Senior Coach Bec Goddard wished McCarthy well for the future.

“Kate has been a wonderful character and teammate during her time at the Hawks,” Goddard said.

“We look forward to seeing what’s next for her and thank her for her service to the club.”