Todd Goldstein: AFL Career, Retirement, and Family Life

Todd Goldstein announced his retirement from AFL football on November 19, 2025 after a record-breaking 345-game career across 19 seasons. The veteran ruckman, who holds the all-time hit-out record, will transition into a part-time coaching role with Essendon in 2026.

Todd Goldstein — 201 cm, 103 kg — Born 1 July 1988, Melbourne. AFL clubs: North Melbourne (2007–2022), Essendon (2023–2025). Games: 345. Hit-outs: 10,608.

Is Todd Goldstein still playing?

Goldstein is no longer an active AFL player. He retired in November 2025 after 19 seasons, ending any possibility of playing for a third club.

Todd Goldstein announced his retirement from AFL football on 19 November 2025 after 345 games across 19 seasons, per the AFL. The Essendon ruckman had originally indicated he was willing to keep playing in 2026 if he could find a third club, but ultimately decided to retire.

Todd Goldstein retirement announcement

Goldstein said he was privileged to have played 345 games and appreciated the support he received over 19 years, according to the AFL. The announcement came after the 2025 season.

Todd Goldstein 2025 plans

Instead of continuing as a player, Goldstein will serve as a part-time ruck coach at Essendon in 2026, as confirmed by Essendon Football Club.

How many kids does Todd Goldstein have?

Goldstein has two children with his wife, Sarah. He took paternity leave during the 2023 season, a move that was publicly discussed in the media.

Todd Goldstein children details

He has not disclosed the names or genders of his children in public interviews. The family resides in Melbourne.

Todd Goldstein paternity leave experience

Goldstein balanced fatherhood with professional football, and his decision to take paternity leave was covered by news outlets as a notable moment in his late-career move to Essendon.

Is Todd Goldstein married?

Yes, Todd Goldstein is married to Sarah Goldstein. There is no credible information about a previous marriage; the search term “first wife” is a search artifact.

Todd Goldstein wife

Sarah Goldstein has generally stayed out of the public spotlight. The couple have two children.

What is Todd Goldstein doing now?

Goldstein has transitioned to a part-time ruck coaching role at Essendon, effective 2026. He is no longer an active AFL player.

Goldstein will serve as a part-time ruck coach for Essendon in 2026, as announced by the club. He has not publicly discussed any other business ventures or media roles as of early 2026.

Todd Goldstein post-AFL career

The coaching role marks his first official post-playing position, keeping him connected to the club where he finished his playing days.

Todd Goldstein current activities

Beyond coaching, no other professional activities have been announced. He continues to live in Melbourne with his family.

Which AFL player has ADHD?

The question commonly arises from confusion between Todd Goldstein and former AFL player Heath Black, who has publicly spoken about his ADHD diagnosis. No credible source links Todd Goldstein to ADHD.

Heath Black ADHD

Heath Black has discussed his ADHD in media interviews and speaking engagements. Goldstein has no known connection to the condition.

Todd Goldstein career stats and biography

Goldstein’s career numbers place him among the most durable ruckmen in VFL/AFL history, with an all-time hit-out record and 345 games.

Todd Goldstein age

Born 1 July 1988 in Melbourne, Goldstein was 37 years old at the time of his retirement.

Todd Goldstein height weight

Goldstein stands 201 cm tall and weighed 103 kg during his playing career.

Todd Goldstein draft history

He was drafted by North Melbourne with pick 37 in the 2006 National Draft, as reported by Essendon Football Club.

Todd Goldstein Pascoe Vale connection

Goldstein played junior football for Pascoe Vale in the Essendon District Football League (EDFL).

The pattern: Goldstein’s late draft selection and eventual record-breaking career illustrate how perseverance and consistent performance can redefine expectations for a ruckman. The implication is that his longevity and durability set a benchmark for modern ruckmen.

Career timeline

• 1 July 1988: Born in Melbourne, Australia
• 2006: Drafted by North Melbourne (pick 37)
• 2008: AFL debut for North Melbourne
• 2015: All-Australian selection; won Syd Barker Medal (club best-and-fairest)
• 2022: Left North Melbourne after 315 games and 16 seasons
• 2023–2025: Played for Essendon (30 games, including 16 in 2025)
• 19 Nov 2025: Announced retirement; holds record for most hit-outs (10,608)

Sources: AFL, Essendon Football Club, ESPN

Frequently Asked Questions

“I’ve been privileged to play 345 games and appreciate the support I’ve received over 19 years.”

“Goldstein will serve as a part-time ruck coach in 2026 after retiring.”