Daniel Stewart, former Port Adelaide AFL player, dies aged 37

Former Port Adelaide player Daniel Stewart has died suddenly at the age of 37.

The Power confirmed Stewart’s death on Saturday as the club said it was “deeply saddened” by the news that had come as a “shock”.

Stewart played 36 AFL matches and kicked 31 goals for the Power between 2010 and 2013 after being selected with pick No 35 in the 2009 rookie draft.

The 200cm key forward was recruited from North Adelaide in the Sanfl, after coming through the Eastern Ranges and Queensland club Labrador.

Stewart was promoted to the Power’s senior list at the end of the 2009 season and the next year made his debut in round four against Geelong.

He booted a career-high four goals, including two in the final term, to help the Power hold on for a tense victory against Richmond in the last round of 2010.

“On behalf of everyone at the Port Adelaide Football Club, I extend our deepest condolences to Daniel’s family including his mum Donna, dad Byron, wife Laura, his two sons Bernie and Lando and his brother Leigh,” Port Adelaide chief executive, Matthew Richardson, said.

“We also extend our thoughts to his friends, including his close friend and former teammate Matt Thomas, and to all those at North Adelaide and Labrador who knew him.

“Daniel was part of the Port Adelaide football family, and he always will be. A sudden passing like this is devastating and our thoughts are with everyone who loved him, and with the teammates, coaches and staff who shared the journey with him here at Alberton.

“The club will provide support to those affected by Daniel’s passing, including his former teammates and the people who worked alongside him. We will honour Daniel by wearing black armbands in our first home game at Adelaide Oval in 2027.”

Former Port Adelaide teammate and current AFL analyst Kane Cornes joined the messages of condolence sent to Stewart and his family.

“A true tragedy. A brilliant and caring teammate who always had a smile on his face,” Cornes said in a post on X.

“I loved watching him and his beautiful family from afar. He built a thriving business and shared a special friendship with Matty Thomas. Heart goes out to his family.”