Collingwood vice-captain Sidebottom won’t play again in 2020, the club confirmed on Saturday.
The gun midfielder exited the hub last month to be with his partner as they welcomed their first child and the club was exploring the possibility of him undertaking an additional quarantine period so he could take part in finals.
But after looking into various options to quarantine around the country, Sidebottom and his partner concluded it wouldn’t be possible.
“Steele and Alisha have made a call that is completely understandable and one we wholly support,” Collingwood GM of Football, Geoff Walsh said in a club statement.
“Their comfort and security as a family was always the most important consideration.”
Sidebottom played nine games for Collingwood this season, averaging 23 touches and three tackles.