GOLD Coast defender Greg Broughton has announced his retirement and will get a farewell game at the SCG against the Sydney Swans on Saturday night.

Broughton travelled a less traditional road to the AFL but will still eke out a 110-game career at both Fremantle and Gold Coast.

The 28-year-old was a triple premiership player in the WAFL before the Dockers punted on him at pick No.79 in the 2009 AFL Draft.

After four years in the west and three with the Suns, injuries got the better of Broughton, with a knee problem sidelining him since round 10 prior to this weekend's farewell.

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"Personally it's been a tough year, mentally and physically," Broughton told the club's website.

"I think it's a pretty easy decision on my behalf.

"I think early days my body would hold up (better). I think I like to say I'm more of a crash and bash type player.

"In the latter stages of my career I started to get sorer and sorer and more injuries."

Broughton was quick to thank Fremantle for giving him an opportunity after winning three straight flags with Subiaco.

The rugged half-back played 68 games for the Dockers before switching sides of the country.

"I think personally I just needed a change, and for me to move interstate I think it was the right decision," he said.

"Gold Coast gave me the opportunity to come across and I took it."

With his playing days about to finish, Broughton said he would finish his plumbing degree in the next six to 12 months and then consider a career in coaching.