North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos defender Danielle Hardiman has announced her retirement from football.

Revered for her selflessness and determination, Hardiman hangs up the boots after 42 games across seven seasons for North Melbourne and Carlton. 

Taken with pick 35 in the 2016 AFLW Draft, she made her debut in front of a full house at Ikon Park in the League’s first-ever match between Carlton and Collingwood in 2017. 

She played 12 games in the navy blue before moving to Arden St ahead of the Kangaroos’ inaugural AFLW season in 2019. There, the 28-year-old posed a tough match-up for opposition forwards across a further 30 games, including three finals appearances. She was also part of the side’s leadership group in 2021.

North Melbourne head of women’s football Nathan Hrovat paid tribute to Hardiman and her contribution to the club.

“Dani has been important and much-loved member of the side both on and off the field since our first season in 2019,” Hrovat said.

“She epitomised the Kangaroo spirit and her devotion to the team and the program was second to none. We will certainly miss having her around the club.

“We thank Dani for her fantastic contribution to our program during her five seasons in the blue and white and wish her all the best in life post-football. As an inaugural Roo, she will always be a special part of our history and will always be welcome at Arden St.”

Hardiman’s retirement leaves one spot open on the Kangaroos’ list ahead of the 2023 AFLW season.