Andrew Boston has retired from AFL football after losing the passion to play at the highest level.

The 21-year-old informed the Gold Coast SUNS of his intention to leave the club late last week, and today executed a formal release from his 2016 contract.

Boston, who had signed a one-year extension in July, said he had lost the motivation for a full-time AFL career and instead would play local football.

“I have been weighing this up for a while and I’ve thought about it a lot over the break. Although it’s a really hard decision I know it’s the right decision for me,” he said.

"AFL football is a lifestyle, not a job. At the elite level you’ve got to live football 24/7.

“If you can’t live your entire life with the necessary commitment and discipline you won’t and can’t be elite. At the moment I simply don't have the passion required to play at the elite level, and don’t want to take a spot on the SUNS list that can be given to somebody else.

“I want to thank everyone involved at the SUNS and I wish the club and the players all the success in the future,” Boston said.

General Manager - Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft said: "The club understands this was a difficult decision for Andrew and we appreciate his transparency while making his decision.

"The club thanks Andrew for his contribution to the club and we wish him and his family all the best for the future," Ashcroft added.

A Gold Coast product, Boston played 16 AFL games after making his debut in round 14, 2013. He kicked a career-best four goals against the GWS Giants at Metricon Stadium in Round 23, 2013, and had a career-best 22 possessions in Round 11 against Fremantle at Metricon this year.

Boston’s retirement comes prior to the AFL’s List Lodgement (2) deadline on Tuesday, November 10.