Hawthorn ruckman Robbie Campbell has announced his retirement from the AFL due to a degenerative knee problem.

Campbell told his teammates just prior to the club's annual awards night in Melbourne, where Sam Mitchell won the Peter Crimmins Medal as their best and fairest player for 2009.

Campbell, 27, played 116 games for the Hawks, highlighted by their 2008 premiership win.

"You're told from the start of your career that footy is a tough, uncompromising and challenging business and you are never under any illusion," Campbell told the club's website.

"Since 2005 I knew that I have had a degenerative knee condition and I had thought at that time my career might be cut short, then and there.

"I will be eternally grateful for the faith (coach Alastair Clarkson) and his coaching group showed in me to allow me to continue playing footy and ultimately play in a premiership team.

Clarkson said Campbell will be missed.

"We had enormous trust and belief in the manner that Robbie could influence a contest and this will be one aspect that will be difficult to replace," said Clarkson.

"He has overcome many obstacles in his football career but we have taken the decision that the journey of life should now take significance over the journey of football.

"A players' well-being is the most important thing."

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