A few weeks before the AFL season, Premiership Demon Angus Brayshaw announces his retirement.
Due to ongoing concussion problems, Angus Brayshaw has been medically retired with immediate effect. This decision was made just weeks before Melbourne’s 2024 AFL season was set to begin.
Brayshaw reportedly told his teammates of his decision before announcing his retirement on Thursday morning.
The 28-year-old was injured during the clubs’ September qualifying final match when Collingwood player Brayden Maynard unintentionally collided with him.
“I am heartbroken that I have to give up my favorite game, but I respect the doctors’ decision and understand how important it is to put my health before my career,” Brayshaw remarked.
“I’m incredibly proud of everything I’ve accomplished in the last ten years. Despite the fact that it was cut short, I am eternally grateful to everyone who helped me realize my childhood dream.
“I would especially like to express my gratitude to the Melbourne Football Club staff, coaches, and teammates for everything they have done for me over the years. I express my gratitude to Danielle, my partner, and my family for their unwavering support. I want to thank each and every member and fan for their amazing support along the way.
Concussions are a serious problem for our sport. I’m hoping that some good things for player safety in the future can come from this, which is a horrible outcome for me personally.
A few unfortunate people were recently forced to end their careers early due to repeated head injuries: retired Hawthorn ruckman Max Lynch, former Sydney defender Paddy McCartin, and former Lion Marcus Adams.
The dependable Brayshaw still had five seasons left on his Melbourne contract. He played 167 AFL games, including the Demons’ historic 2021 drought-breaking premiership. It was a “tough day” for Brayshaw and “everyone involved given his love for the club and the game and how much he means to our people,” according to Melbourne Chief Executive Gary Pert.
Following this tragic news, Pert stated, “our entire focus is going to be going into supporting Angus, his fiancée Danielle, and the larger Brayshaw family.”
“Angus has made a significant impact ever since he first arrived at the Club. He was a phenomenal player who helped us win the Premiership in 2021.
In addition to being a well-liked individual who made his teammates and the staff laugh every day, he has been a well-respected and powerful leader of the player group.
“We will speak with Angus to discuss the possibility of keeping him involved in the program in whatever capacity is suitable once things have calmed down after the announcement.
I express my gratitude to Angus on behalf of all the members of the Club, as well as our supporters, for his steadfast commitment, bravery, and devotion to the organization.
Melbourne’s preseason has been extremely turbulent, as evidenced by the recent disclosure of accusations that suspended player Demon Joel Smith engaged in cocaine trafficking.
