© Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSPaddy Ryder has been granted personal leave by St Kilda.
St Kilda star Paddy Ryder will take an indefinite period of leave away from the AFL club for personal reasons.
The club announced on Wednesday the 32-year-old Indigenous ruckman has been granted time to spend with family and elders in his community.
Ryder missed last week's pre-season fixture against Carlton because of a head knock and had been in doubt for the round-one clash with GWS on March 21.
He will now miss at least the early rounds of the season.
"Family and community are a huge part of the culture and connection that we are building at the club," St Kilda chief operating officer Simon Lethlean said.
"When Paddy said he needed to take some time off for his health and well-being and reconnect with his family and culture, he had our full support to do so.
"2020 was difficult for many families, with border closures and restrictions impacting everyone differently.
"We look forward to Paddy returning after some time way, energised to attack the 2021 season and ready to contribute strongly to our on-field endeavours."
Ryder's absence compounds a lengthy injury list at St Kilda, who will begin the season without their first-choice ruck duo.
Rowan Marshall is already sidelined with a foot stress injury.
Dan Hannebery (calf), Jarryn Geary (fractured leg), James Frawley (hamstring) and Ben Paton (broken leg) are also out of action, while Zak Jones (hamstring) is in some doubt for round one.
Dylan Roberton announced his retirement this month due to health issues.