Essendon ruckman Matthew Leuenberger has announced his retirement after 137 games in the AFL.
The 30-year-old was offered a one-year deal by the Bombers for the 2019 season but decided to call time on his career.
Originally drafted with pick No. 4 by the Brisbane Lions in the 2006 draft, Leuenberger played 108 games for the Lions before switching to the Bombers as a free-agent at the end of the 2015 season.
The big-man played 29 games for the Bombers over three seasons at the club.
“I would like to thank the club for the past three years,” Leuenberger told the Essendon website.
“It has been a thrill to experience the likes of ANZAC Day and watch the group grow to a point where anything is possible next season.
“I felt like the flame is now burning too low to compete every day at training let alone game day, and it would have been selfish of me to show up for another season.
“I would like to thank my teammates, coaches, friends, fans and in particular my family who have supported me through every up and down.
“Also, to the Brisbane Lions who gave me my first opportunity to play football at the highest level, thank you.”
