Josh Battle has today informed St Kilda Football Club that he will pursue free agency opportunities with Hawthorn moving into next season.

Making his debut as an 18-year-old forward, Battle cemented himself as one of the club’s foremost key defenders across a career in red, white and black that spanned 123 games.

"I came to this club while I was still in high school and couldn’t have asked for a better place to grow, both as a footballer and a person," Battle said.

"I now have a young family of my own, and in planning for our future I’ve come to the difficult decision to move on from my time at the Saints.

"The club has been fantastic throughout this entire process and I leave so grateful for the support they’ve shown both my family and I.

"I’d like to thank all my teammates, coaches and staff who have made my time at the Saints so special, as well as the Saints fans who embraced me from day one."

St Kilda EGM Football David Misson thanked Battle for his service to the club.

"While we’re clearly disappointed to be losing a person of Josh’s talent and character, he leaves with our best wishes for this next chapter for his young family."