Brisbane midfielder Jarryd Lyons has announced he will retire at the conclusion of the club’s finals campaign, informing his teammates of his decision this week, which marks the end of his 194-game career.
The 32-year-old, who played for three clubs over 14 seasons—Brisbane (102 games), Gold Coast (37), and Adelaide (55)—has made just three appearances this year for Chris Fagan’s side.
Originally selected with Pick 61, Lyons, who was the sub in last year’s grand final, revitalized his career as a key ball winner at the Lions after joining the club as a delisted free agent at the end of the 2018 season.
“My career was at a bit of a crossroads, and this club offered me a lifeline,” Lyons said.
“It could have easily been a modest 100-game career, but you all helped me turn it into something I’m incredibly proud of. I could talk for ages about how great this club is.
“To the boys, I’ve played with hundreds of you, and that’s what makes this journey worthwhile.
“I’ll miss going to work every day with you guys the most.
“But enough about me. This group has what it takes, so let’s extend this as long as we can and aim for the end. I’m excited—let’s do it!”
JL's retirement speech to the club ❤️🦁
Watch the full speech and hear from Fages here: https://t.co/W9gwCUJli1 pic.twitter.com/zoz1sfvNER— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) September 12, 2024
Lions coach Chris Fagan praised Jarryd Lyons, a two-time Marcus Ashcroft medallist and last year’s VFL best and fairest winner, for making the most of his opportunities at Brisbane.
“He became one of the toughest players to compete against, an outstanding stoppage player with great skills and a sharp football mind,” he noted.
“There was a year when he might have even finished high in the Brownlow count.
“He played his best football here because he had a fantastic attitude and was determined to maximize his potential.
“You can’t walk away from AFL footy without knowing you’ve given it your all.”
Fagan added, “We’ve been better as a club for having you here over the past six or seven years, and it’s no coincidence that our rise up the ladder coincided with your arrival.”