Pembroke Old Scholars star Alex Forster calls time on playing career

A former AFL forward and SANFL premiership player has announced his retirement after a decorated local SA footy career which included two flags at two separate clubs.

A champion local SA footy forward and former AFL player has announced his retirement after seven years at the local level.

Pembroke Old Scholars star Alex Forster, who played for Fremantle from 2012 to 2013 and also won a SANFL premiership with Norwood in 2014, has called time on his playing days at the conclusion of season 2024.

Forster joined Payneham Norwood Union in 2018 after leaving the SANFL and won a D1 flag with the Falcons in 2019 before returning to his school club Pembroke OS in 2020 and eventually winning a division four premiership with the Kings in 2022.

The 31-year-old booted 343 goals in 83 games for the club and also worked as its football director from 2022 to 2024.

Pembroke OS star Alex Forster has announced his retirement. Picture: Tom Huntley

“It was a really difficult decision to make but it was probably something I’d been thinking about for four or five months,” Forster said.

“I’m probably getting to that next stage of my life now, my wife and I are expecting our first baby in November and things are also stepping up at work a bit so I probably can’t be fully committed like I have been.

“I feel really content and comfortable with the decision.”

Forster was drafted to Fremantle with the 29th pick alongside Kybybolite juniors teammate and childhood friend Lachie Neale in 2012 but only played one AFL game for the Dockers before finding his way back to the Redlegs.

Forster after being drafted by Fremantle. Picture: File

He said he was satisfied with his achievements despite his short-lived stint at the top level.

“I’m super proud of the career I’ve had,” Forster said.

“Of course I would have loved to play more AFL footy but that just wasn’t my journey and I’ve accepted that.

“Winning a SANFL flag at Norwood was really special and then moving to Payneham for some success before playing with my mates at Pembroke and helping the club improve have all been huge highlights for me.”

Forster believed his five years at the Kings had been among the most enjoyable of his career.

Forster won a premiership with Norwood in 2014. Picture: Stephen Laffer

“I’ve loved it at Pembroke just going back to where it all started, connecting with the boys I used to play with and playing with some great friends.

“We care a lot about the club and to be able to get some SANFL players to come back and to then have some success has been really important.

“I’ve met so many great people at the club and have also formed some special friendships across my other clubs and in Perth.

“That is the most special thing about footy and in any sport, just the relationships you form and the joy that the game can bring to the players, supporters, volunteers, sponsors and the parents.

“It’s something you have forever with that group of players and everyone who is involved with a club.”