Doctors have advised Collingwood resident Nathan Murphy, 24, to retire early due to his history of concussions.
The 2023 Premiership player suffered his eleventh concussion during the grand final, which prevented him from participating in match simulation training in February. That was the last performance he gave.
After a protracted dispute with the league’s medical concussion panel, the league cut him loose after 57 games.
He was the second AFL player, after Melbourne’s Angus Brayshaw, to retire early in February as a result of concussion advice.
Murphy informed coworkers and Pies staff on Tuesday morning.
Murphy stated, “I feel like this is the right time and this is the right decision for me to hang up my footy boots.” “As much as I adore football, my health and future come first.
“I am grateful for the team’s support throughout my playing career and for enabling me to fulfil a childhood dream of becoming an AFL player—thank you to the coaches, players, staff, and Magpie Army.”
Without my family’s and friends’ unwavering love and support, I would not have made it through this trip.
I’m grateful for my good fortune in winning the championship with this group and company. I believe I did the jumper justice, and I appreciate the help from my friends and family.
“I will always treasure the friendships and memories I’ve made at our wonderful club.”
Collingwood selected Nathan Murphy with the 39th overall pick in the 2017 draft, but he suffered an injury in 2019. Prior to enjoying his breakthrough season after getting back into form, he played 31 games in 2021 and 2022.
In 2023, Nathan Murphy made 24 starts for the Pies, including a first-quarter collision with Brisbane’s Lincoln McCarthy’s left shoulder during the grand final.
Because of his past, Murphy was replaced, even though he passed the concussion test.
Brendon Bolton, general manager of Collingwood football, said of Nathan, “A credit goes to his resilience and perseverance to come back and perform to a high standard on many occasions.” Nathan suffered numerous injuries during his career.
Even though we will miss him, Collingwood will always remember Murph as a 2023 Premiership player. We at the club hope that his new journey turns out to be fruitful.
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