Dan Howe eludes a tackle from Richmond’s Dustin Martin while playing for North Melbourne in round 23 at the MCG. Photo AAP.
Plucked from the Rennie Hoppers by Hawthorn in 2014, Daniel Howe has called time on his AFL career following nine seasons across two clubs, playing 107 games.
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Howe, a versatile player in both defence and the midfield, was taken by the Hawks with pick No.31 in the 2014 AFL Draft.
The 27-year-old made his AFL debut in Round 9, 2015 against the Gold Coast Suns and was named the Hawks’ best first year player that year.
He spoke to the Yarrawonga Chronicle last Friday and when asked about any prospect of joining his brother Lach at the Yarrawonga Pigeons, he responded: “I’m not going to say yes or rule it out either’.
Dan Howe in his Hawthorn playing days where he racked up 96 games. Photo AAP.
“Clarko and I had a chat at the end of the season and said he’d be looking towards younger players.” Howe said he had a great nine years, both at Hawthorn and his one year at North.
“I just thought it was time,” the second-year Bachelor of Commerce, hoping to major in Economics through Monash University, said.
“A few footy clubs around Melbourne have shown interest. It’s all a bit fresh and I just want time to think through things.”
A versatile player with the ability to play a lockdown role both through the midfield and in defence, he went on to register 96 games across eight seasons in the brown and gold, including three finals appearances.
He enjoyed his most productive season in 2021, playing 20 games under the tutelage of now North Melbourne senior coach Alastair Clarkson.
Howe arrived at Arden Street via the 2022 Rookie Draft, reuniting with Clarkson and fellow former Hawk Liam Shiels.
He made his club debut in the Roos’ thrilling, one-point victory over Fremantle in Round 2 and featured a further 10 times in the royal blue and white at AFL level.
North Melbourne general manager of football Todd Viney thanked Howe for his contribution in his short time at the club.
“Dan has only been at the club for one season, but he’s had a significant impact on the group in his time here,” Viney said.
“He brought a professional attitude to his training and preparation, and gave his all in every game he played, whether at AFL or VFL level.
“At the end of the season Dan had a chat with Clarko about what 2024 looked like and he decided it was in his best interests to prioritise life beyond AFL football.
“We wish Dan all the best for his future endeavours and thank him for his service to North Melbourne.”
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