Sports

Heart condition rules Roberton out for the rest of the season

Star St Kilda defender Dylan Roberton has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a heart condition.

The former Docker sent a huge scare around the footy world when he collapsed at Kardinia Park 18 days ago during the Saints round four meeting with Geelong.

Dylan Roberton leaving the ground after his collapse in round four.

Photo: AAP

He hasnt played since and it has been decided based upon medical advice that he will take no further part in St Kildas 2018 campaign as doctors try to ascertain what the cause of his heart condition is.

Roberton, who made the All-Australian squad last year, is hopeful that he hasnt played his last AFL game.

A source of hope for the 26-year-old is that past players like Western Bulldogs midfielder Nathan Eagleton and Sydney wingman John Stevens were able to continue playing at the highest level after experiencing heart issues of their own.

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Roberton has played 91 of his 128 career games with the Saints since joining them in 2013 and will help coach the clubs defenders this season.

“Dylan Roberton will be sidelined for three months as we continue to monitor the cause of an irregular heartbeat,” St Kilda said in a statement on Thursday.

“Last week, Roberton had a device implanted to monitor his heart rate over the next three months.

“While doctors believe there is only a minor chance of the issue recurring, all precautions need to be taken before he returns to full training.

“He will be assessed regularly during this time before having further tests to determine if things have returned to normal.

“During this period, he is permitted to do light exercise and is expected to take on an off-field role to support his teammates.”

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Ronny Lerner

Ronny Lerner is a Sports reporter for The Age.

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