<h2>Luke Breust announces AFL Retirement - Quick Hands Summary:</h2> <p>-Triple premiership Hawk Luke Breust announces retirement at season's end</p> <p>-Breust has kicked 552 goals in 306 games across his illustrious career</p> <p>-Set to equal Sam Mitchell's club record of 307 games in his final season</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Luke Breust, Hawthorn's three-time premiership small forward, has announced his retirement from AFL football at the conclusion of the 2025 season. The 34-year-old goal sneak informed teammates of his decision this week.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Breust's Legacy: A Hawk's Tale of Triumph</h2> <p>Luke Breust's name is etched in Hawthorn folklore, with the dynamic forward playing a pivotal role in the club's golden era. Breust's career highlights include three premiership medals from 2013 to 2025, showcasing his longevity and impact at the highest level. With 552 goals from 306 games, Breust's accuracy and consistency in front of the big sticks have been hallmarks of his playing style.</p> <p>Recruited from Temora NSW back in 2009 with pick 47 in the Rookie Draft, Breust made his debut in 2011, making his debut as the sub before kicking two goals on debut.&nbsp;</p> <p>The following year, he had earned his place in the Hawks starting team and played in the first of his four consecutive Grand Finals.&nbsp;</p> <p>The small forward's ability to hit the scoreboard and bring teammates into the game has been crucial to Hawthorn's success over the years. His football IQ and craftiness inside 50 have made him a nightmare for opposition defenders, often turning half-chances into six points with his uncanny goal sense.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>From Premiership Hero to Mentor</h2> <p>In recent seasons, Breust's role has evolved from being solely a goalscorer to becoming a mentor for the Hawks' next generation. His leadership and guidance have been instrumental in developing Hawthorn's young talent, particularly in nurturing the club's emerging small forwards.</p> <p>Hawks' football boss Rob McCartney praised Breust's contribution:</p> <p>"Luke's accolades and achievements will see him remembered as one of Hawthorn's genuine greats... Whether it was hitting the scoreboard individually or bringing teammates into the game, Luke's ability to contribute consistently at a high level over such a long period of time has been one of his trademark attributes."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>A Final Milestone in Sight</h2> <p>As Breust prepares to hang up the boots, he's set to achieve one final milestone. His next game will be his 307th, equalling Sam Mitchell's club record for the third-most games in Hawthorn's history. It's a fitting tribute to a player who has given so much to the brown and gold.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>The Human Behind the Hawk</h2> <p>While Breust's on-field exploits have earned him accolades and admiration, it's his character off the field that has endeared him to the Hawthorn faithful. McCartney highlighted this aspect of Breust's personality:</p> <p>"Whilst Luke is an outstanding player, he is an even better human – highly respected by all at our club for his selflessness, loyalty and friendship. We wish Luke, his wife Anthea, and their daughter Freya, the very best in this next chapter – they will always remain an important part of Hawthorn."</p> <p>As the curtain falls on Breust's remarkable career, fans will have the remainder of the season to celebrate the achievements of one of Hawthorn's modern-day champions. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Hawks, ensuring that the Breust name remains synonymous with Hawthorn's success for years to come.<br /> &nbsp;</p> <h2>Can Luke Breust finish his career as a four-time AFL Premiership player?</h2>