Defender James Frawley is the latest Hawthorn premiership player to call it quits.

The 32-year-old will retire from the AFL following 239 games, 139 for Melbourne and 100 for the Hawks after debuting in 2007.

He crossed from the Demons as free agent at the end of the 2014 season and played in the Hawks’ grand final win against West Coast the following year.

The one-time All-Australian says he is unsure about what he does next but is excited for a new challenge.

“I would especially like to thank all my teammates over the journey, I have made so many friendships that will last way beyond football,” he said.

“My family and friends have been there since day one, particularly my parents.

“The coaching and support staff for their unwavering support of me over my time at both Hawthorn and Melbourne football clubs.”

He joins fellow premiership players Ben Stratton and Paul Puopolo in bowing out of the Hawks this year as they face a struggling period following years of dominance to begin the 2010s.

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson paid tribute to Frawley for his immediate impact in helping the Hawks win a third-straight premiership.

“His capacity to negate the influence of the opposition’s most potent key forwards was clearly evident in our 2015 premiership campaign where he limited the influence of Taylor Walker (Adelaide), Matthew Pavlich (Fremantle) and Josh Kennedy (West Coast) in successive weeks,” Clarkson said.

“Across his career, he has been reliable and disciplined, using his speed and strength to great effect.

“His country background and humility endeared him to all, especially his teammates, many of whom will be lifelong mates.”