He was bestowed Fremantle’s treasured No.29 jumper, but Dockers fans will never get to see Luke Valente wear it after the youngster announced his premature retirement.

The 21-year-old revealed on Friday he’d opted to walk away from the Dockers and the league after three injury-plagued seasons.

Selected at pick 32 in the 2018 National Draft, Valente showed ample potential but was plagued by consistent groin injuries.

Valente also took a leave of absence from the club last year in July for personal reasons.

The South Australian, who was handed Fremantle’s fabled guernsey in the wake of Pavlich’s exit, said he had come to the realisation that he would be unable to fulfil his lifelong dream of playing AFL.

Valente will now return home to consider his long-term future.

“Unfortunately, I have come to the realisation that, physically, I am unable to make the progress required to play at the elite level,” Valente said.

“It was an incredibly difficult decision to make but after a long period of reflection, including discussions with the club, my family, friends and management, I believe that, in terms of my long-term health and well-being, it is the right thing to do.

“So many people at Freo have worked really hard to help me achieve my dream of playing in the AFL.

“Even though that dream will remain unfulfilled, I’m indebted to the club for the opportunity it provided me and thank all the players, staff and Freo fans for the huge amount of support I received during my time at Fremantle.

“In the short-term, I’m heading back to SA to be with family and friends and continue studying for my uni degree.

“In the meantime, I wish everyone at the club and all Freo supporters all the very best for what promises to be an exciting time in 2022 and beyond.”

Valente was the second Docker selected in the 2018 draft, behind forward Sam Sturt (pick 17), who has managed just four senior games.

In his draft year, Valente captained the victorious SA team in the National U18 Championship and was also named as vice-captain in the 2018 U18 All-Australian team.

Executive general manager of football Peter Bell said Valente had done everything possible to debut for the Dockers.

“It is always a tough time when a young player finishes their career in this manner,” Bell said.

“Throughout his time at the Club, Luke did everything he possibly could to meet the physical requirements of AFL.

“Luke is an outstanding young man of great character, who is both popular with his teammates and highly respected for his determination and endeavour.”

“On behalf of everyone at Fremantle, we wish Luke all the best for the future, knowing that whatever path he chooses he will give it everything he possibly can.”