Brisbane Lions Vice-Captain Josh Drummond has today announced his retirement from AFL football.
Drummond, 29, informed the Club of his decision to retire last night.
Drummond, a product of the Sunshine Coast, said that after playing 94 senior games over nine seasons, he could no longer put his body through another AFL campaign.
“It’s a tough decision because I love footy so much and I love being a part of the Brisbane Lions, but I had to accept that I just can’t do it anymore,” said Drummond, who has battled ongoing hip issues.
“I didn’t want to be a burden on the Club and I had to start thinking about life after football.
“I would have loved to play on because I sense the Club is on the verge of some really exciting times, but I would have been asking too much of my body to try to go through it all again.”
Drafted in 2003 as a mature-aged rookie from Maroochydore, Drummond quickly became known across the AFL for his pin-point left boot and his attacking style across half-back.
He has indicated he would like to remain in the football industry and will continue to complete his post-graduate studies in sports science and coaching.
Senior Coach Michael Voss said Drummond had made a huge impact at the Lions over the past decade.
“Drummo showed total commitment to this Club during his entire career and his value on the park was unquestionable – he possessed one of the best kicks I’ve ever seen,” he said.
“His progression from the rookie list to the senior list – then to be a part of our leadership group, it’s a great success story for football in Queensland and something a lot of young players in this state should take inspiration from.
“He completely invested in the regeneration of the culture of this football Club and he will be sorely missed. Our players are going to need to pick up where he left off.”
Voss said Drummond’s “footy brain” made him a likely candidate to move from the playing to the coaching ranks.
“He’s got a footy brain – his ability to interpret and analyse a situation is excellent. I would have thought that if he’s got aspirations to coach or be involved somehow, he’s certainly got the nous to do so,” he said.
“It’s unfortunate that injuries have got the better of him, but now he’ll move on the next phase of his career, and we wish him nothing but the best.
“He’s been an outstanding servant of this footy Club.”
The Brisbane Lions will honour Drummond with a lap of honour prior to the first home game of the 2013 AFL season.
