Daniel Stewart, a key forward who played four seasons at Port Adelaide, died suddenly on Friday. He was 37. The club said in a statement that it was "devastating" and extended deepest condolences to his family, including his mother Donna, father Byron, wife Laura, sons Bernie and Lando, and brother Leigh, as well as his close friend and former teammate Matt Thomas.
Stewart was drafted by the Power with pick No.35 in the 2009 rookie draft after playing for the Eastern Ranges in Victoria, Labrador in Queensland and North Adelaide in the SANFL. He was promoted to the senior list at the end of that season. His best AFL performance came in the final round of 2010 against Richmond, where he kicked four goals in a 10-point win.
Port Adelaide chief executive Matthew Richardson said the club would provide support to those affected by Stewart's passing, including former teammates and staff. The club plans to honour Stewart by wearing black armbands at its first home game at Adelaide Oval in 2027.
Former teammate and AFL media identity Kane Cornes paid tribute on X, calling Stewart "a brilliant and caring teammate who always had a smile on his face." Cornes described the death as a "true tragedy."