Hawthorn ruckman Jack Fitzpatrick has retired from AFL football due to concussion after 26 senior games.
Fitzpatrick has opted to hang up the boots following medical advice from doctors, who advised him it was best to retire for his long term health.
The 26-year-old has not played since suffering a concussion in round eight against Brisbane.
He played 22 games with Melbourne from 2010 to 2015 after being recruited with pick No.50 in the 2009 National Draft. He then joined the Hawks, where he has played a further four games in two seasons, including two finals in 2016.
"It's unfortunate that I'm unable to play the game I love any longer, but I'm rapt to have had the opportunity to be a part of two great clubs," Fitzpatrick told the Hawks' website.
"The medical attention and care I've received from the club doctors has been outstanding and I really appreciate the support I've been shown from everyone at the club during what has been a pretty difficult time.
"I would like to thank Hawthorn for the opportunity to play in the brown and gold, the colours I grew up wearing as a kid, and to Melbourne for the six years of memories created during my time at the Dees.
"The friendships I have formed at both clubs will be something I will always be grateful for."
Hawthorn general manager of football operations Jason Burt said the decision in the end was out of Fitzpatrick's hands.
“The medical advice Jack and the club has followed has always centred around his long-term health and welfare," Burt said.
“Jack is a fantastic character and I have no doubt that he will succeed in whatever he decides to take on next.”
