Hawthorn ruckman Max Lynch will retire from football after the AFL Independent Medical Concussion Panel recommended that he stop participating in contact sports permanently.
Lynch was put to the club’s long-term injury list in May of this year, after being subbed out of the Round 6 match against Adelaide due to concussion.
The 24-year-old has been in frequent consultation with the club’s medical personnel and has recently taken on the role of AFLW Development Coach.
Rob McCartney, General Manager of Football, stated that the recommendation was made in Max’s best interests for his future and that he would continue to receive full support from the club.
“Since being placed on the long-term injury list, Max has worked hard with our medical team to recover to full cognitive function following his most recent concussion. This move is intended to decrease the danger of future injuries that could affect the situation,” McCartney stated.
“What has impressed me the most is his resilience in the face of adversities.
“He is a beloved member of the Hawthorn community, a fantastic teammate, and an even better person.
“We will continue to support Max in any way we can as he embarks on the next phase of his life and career off the field.”
Lynch addressed the Hawthorn playing group on Tuesday to announce his retirement and deliver the AFL Independent Medical Concussion Panel’s recommendations.
“This definitely isn’t how I wanted my career to come to an end, but I accept the decision and know it is the right one for my future,” Lynch said in a statement.
“I want to thank the club for its support throughout the entire process, to have all of my teammates and coaches behind me has helped me immensely through this challenging period of my life.”
