Port Adelaide captain Justine Mules-Robinson will retire from football at the conclusion of the 2026 AFLW season, bringing the curtain down on almost a decade at the elite level. 

A foundation AFLW player and inaugural Port Adelaide player, Mules-Robinson has played 103* games across her career, including 49 with the Adelaide Crows and 54 with the Power. 

She reached the 100-game milestone against Sydney at Alberton Oval earlier this season, a significant achievement for a player who has balanced the demands of elite football with full-time work throughout her career. 

The 31-year-old made her AFLW debut in 2017 and established herself as a reliable and determined presence in defence.  

She was part of three premierships with Adelaide in 2017, 2019 and 2022, and was recognised individually with the Crows' Best Defensive Player award and a third-place finish in their best and fairest in 2020. 

Justine Mules-Robinson is the first Port Adelaide player to play 100 AFLW games. Image: Eliza Montgomery.

Since joining Port Adelaide ahead of its inaugural AFLW season, Mules-Robinson made a move to the forward line and quickly became an integral part of the club's playing group and leadership, serving on the leadership group in 2022 and 2023, as vice-captain in 2024 and captain from 2025. 

Throughout her career, Mules-Robinson has experienced the highs of premiership success alongside significant personal challenges, including the deaths of her father and best friend.  

Through it all, she continued to balance football with full-time work while remaining a committed teammate and respected leader. 

Earlier this year, Mules-Robinson and her wife, Liv, announced they were expecting their first child later in 2026, with the prospect of becoming a parent contributing to her decision to step away from football after a decade at the highest level. 

“I'm taking on a new role to being the best future mum and wife I can be, and that means it's time for me to hang up my tiny size six and a half footy boots,” Mules-Robinson said. 

Reflecting on a career that began with an unexpected decision to nominate for the inaugural AFLW Draft, Mules-Robinson said she felt fortunate to have enjoyed the journey and to finish her playing days at Port Adelaide. 

Mules-Robinson was selected in the inaugural AFLW draft and won three premierships with Adelaide. Image: AFL Photos.

“To think that being on a night out with mates and putting my name into the first AFLW draft would somehow leave me here… I've been lucky enough to have an incredible career. And even luckier to finish it here, at Port Adelaide, and the honour of being captain. 

“I want to say thank you to this club and this program for believing in me and giving me the chance to grow, while also allowing me to play a role in developing this young, talented group. 

“This group is so special, and I truly believe they are on the path to something great. I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of that journey, and it's something I'll always be forever grateful for.” 

While three premierships stand out among her career achievements, Mules-Robinson said it was the friendships, shared experiences and connection with Port Adelaide's supporters that she would cherish most. 

“Of course, the premierships are a standout of my career, but what will stay with me are the crazy times, the little moments, and lifelong bonds I've made with the girls. 

“The eight in a row winning streak that led us to our first finals campaign, and playing in front of our incredible fans here at home at Alberton is something I'll cherish forever. 

Mules-Robinson lead the group on-field during its 2024 finals campaign. Image: Matt Sampson.

“Football has a great way of connecting you to people, and I walk away with lifelong friends that feel like my younger sisters. 

“As my old man would say, live life with no regrets, and I can truly say that when I look back at my footy career, I've had none.” 

Port Adelaide Head of AFLW Dan Merrett said Mules-Robinson had made a significant contribution to the club and would leave a lasting legacy through her leadership and impact on the playing group. 

“Justine has been an incredibly important part of our AFLW program, both as an inaugural player and as captain,” Merrett said. 

“The way she leads, the care she shows for her teammates and the resilience she has demonstrated throughout her career are qualities that have had a lasting impact on our club. 

“To play over 100 games at the elite level while balancing the demands of full-time work and navigating challenges in her personal life speaks volumes about the person she is.  

“Justine has given so much to football, and we are incredibly grateful for everything she has contributed to Port Adelaide. 

“While we will certainly miss what she brings to our team, we are thrilled for Justine and Liv as they prepare to welcome their first child.  

“She leaves an important legacy at this club, and we wish them both every happiness as they begin this exciting next chapter.”