Former Fremantle Dockers midfielder Harley Balic dead at 25

Former AFL midfielder Harley Balic, who represented the Fremantle Dockers in 2017, has passed away aged 25.

Former AFL midfielder Harley Balic has died aged 25.

Balic, who represented the Fremantle Dockers for four games in 2017, passed away on Sunday morning.

A Victoria Police statement provided to Leader Newspapers said a report for the coroner would be prepared and the death was not being treated as suspicious.

Balic was drafted by the Dockers as the No. 38 pick in the 2015 AFL Draft. He made his debut for Fremantle in the 2017 season before he requested a trade at the end of the year.

The former Sandringham Dragons player joined the Melbourne Demons the following season.

Balic also played in Peel Thunder’s 2016 WAFL premiership triumph over Subiaco, collecting 20 disposals in the 23-point victory.

Harley Balic celebrating his first AFL goal with Michael Walters. Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images

Balic announced his retirement at the age of 21 in August 2018 after losing passion for the game.

“It’s something I’m not going to regret and I’m very appreciative to Melbourne for letting me come to the club for a second chance,” he said at the time.

“I’ve always loved football, but my heart’s not in it and everything ends up being a grind and I think it’s just the right thing to do.

“The (club’s) VFL and AFL (teams) are both going to be successful this year and it’s something I’d love to be a part of, if I loved it, but unfortunately I don’t and it’s time to go out into the real world and see what else is out there for me.”

Former Fremantle Dockers midfielder Harley Balic (pictured right). Picture: Facebook

Collingwood AFLW star Steph Chiocci tweeted on Monday evening: “Saddened to hear of the passing of Harley Balic. A former Parkdale SC student and one of the most talented junior footballers I had the pleasure of witnessing. So athletic and agile and could run all day. Rest easy, Harley.”

Former Fremantle midfielder Harley Bennell posted on Instagram: “RIP my little HB … I’ll always love you little brother.”