Beloved Demon retires after long concussion history

 Premiership demon Angus Breshaw has been medically retired after suffering an injury in the 2023 qualifying final.

Melbourne premiership player Angus Breshaw has retired.

Recent scan results revealed "microscopic changes" in Breshaw's brain after he suffered a concussion in last year's qualifying final loss, in which Magpie Braden Maynard was hit by an AFL tribunal. Controversially cleared.

Combined with extensive neurological testing and discussions with medical experts, a "devastated" Brayshaw has been medically retired from the sport.

The 28-year-old broke the news to teammates on Thursday morning.

"I'm devastated that I can no longer play the sport I love, but I respect the decision of the medical professionals and the importance of putting my health before my career," Bradshaw said.

"I am truly proud of what I have achieved in the last decade. I have been able to fulfill my childhood dream and while it has been cut short, I am forever grateful to everyone who has helped me. Which includes it.

"I especially want to thank my teammates, my coaches, and the staff at the Melbourne Football Club for everything they've done for me over the years. I also want to thank my family and my partner Daniel. Want to thank them for their endless support. To every member and fan, thank you for your incredible support on the journey.

"Concussion is a huge issue facing our sport. I hope this, a scary outcome for me personally, can have some positive consequences for the future of player safety.

Brayshaw returned to training last week but did not play in Melbourne's match simulation game against Richmond last Sunday. Breshaw's retirement follows an extensive concussion history from early in his career that has seen him wear a helmet.

He would finish after 167 games with the Demons and as a beloved figure at the club that drafted him with the No. 3 pick in the 2014 draft, one selection behind Christian Petrka.

The pair were brilliant together in Melbourne's breakthrough premiership win in 2021 in Perth when the Demons sealed the 57-year flag with victory over the Western Bulldogs. Breshaw had 25 disposals and kicked a goal in the victory.

Brayshaw, a daring midfielder who played on the wing and also at halfback throughout his Melbourne career, has opened up about considering quitting the game due to his history of concussions during his time as a Demon.

After coming back from injury and concussion problems early in his career, Breshaw had a breakout season in 2018, when he averaged 26 disposals and kicked 14 goals and finished third in the Brownlow Medal.

Brayshaw has signed a six-year contract with the Demons from 2022 until the end of 2028, ignoring rival free agency options.

Melbourne CEO Gary Pratt paid tribute to Breshaw's career at the Demons.

"Today is a difficult day for Angus and everyone involved has shown their love for the club and the game and how much it means to our people," said Pratt.

“At present, our full focus is on supporting Angus, his fiancée Danielle, and the wider Breshaw family following this devastating news.

Pratt hailed Breshaw as a "respected, influential leader" and said the club would consider options to keep him involved in the Demons' football program.

"As things settle after this announcement, we will discuss with Angus whatever role is appropriate to keep him involved in the program.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, and on behalf of our members and supporters, I would like to thank Angus for his unwavering loyalty, courage, and dedication to the club."

AFL executive general manager of football Laura Kane said the league supported Breshaw's decision to retire.

"Angus's health and fitness is of the utmost importance and this decision, made in consultation with his medical team, is yet another courageous act that Angus has shown in his 167-game career," Kane said in a statement. During a decorated career."

“Angus's contribution to footy on the field has been well documented and we look forward to his continued contribution to our game off the field in the years to come.

"We wish Angus, Daniel, and their families all the best, and appreciate Angus' leadership in making this decision for himself, his family and his club."