Hawthorn skipper Ben McEvoy will retire at the end of the season after 15 years in the AFL.
The 33-year-old was able to recover from a broken neck this season to play again, running out for his 250th game last round against Gold Coast, but said it was the right time to step away.
McEvoy spent more than 14 weeks on the sidelines in rehabilitation after the horror training injury before returning to play in July.
Such courage made the ruckman a fan favourite at the Hawks and also St Kilda, where he started his AFL career.
"I have an enormous amount to be grateful for across my whole journey," McEvoy said in a statement.
"Football can be a selfish existence at times, and I am incredibly thankful for the unconditional support I have had from my family.
"I also want to thank my teammates, coaches, fitness staff, volunteers, and supporters, who have all contributed to me being able to perform at my best.
"I feel very privileged to have played out the career I have and still pinch myself as to how fortunate I have been."
McEvoy will leave the game a dual-premiership player, having played in Hawthorn's 2014 and 2015 grand final wins.
