LIONS AFLW defensive mainstay Arianna Clarke has decided to step back from elite football to focus on a career change.

The former Queensland Under 18s captain is one of three AFLW players who will farewell the Club as the sign and trade period for the upcoming season gets underway.

Brianna McFarlane and Hannah Hillman have been delisted while Clarke has been released from the second year of her contract.

Lions AFLW CEO Breeanna Brock said Clarke had made a terrific contribution to the club and wished her all the best in her future career.

“Ari will step away from football indefinitely to focus on a new career goal and pursue a better work life balance.,’’ she said.

“We are sad to see Ari go as she still has so much potential, but we understand her reasoning and respect her wishes.

“Ari has been such a great team and club person and she will be sorely missed.

“We thank her for her loyalty to the club and everything she’s given us over the last three years. We wish her all the best. “

Brock also thanked Hillman and McFarlane for their contributions.

“These are always tough decisions and we don’t do it lightly. The girls have been fantastic around the club and we wish them nothing but the best,’’ she said.

McFarlane was picked up as a rookie in the 2018 draft and has been with the Lions for 2 seasons. Struck by two shoulder injuries, she did not manage a game for the Lions.

Hillman, despite not making an AFLW appearance, was a valued member of the playing group as her elite running capabilities spurred on the team.