Professional AFL player Jeremy McGovern from the West Coast reveals reasons behind his retirement decision: "I acknowledges I had reached my end in the sport"
West Coast Defender Jeremy McGovern Announces Retirement from AFL
Jeremy McGovern, a five-time All-Australian and West Coast champion, has announced the end of his AFL career. The defender, who had another year left on his contract, made the decision due to concerns about his long-term health.
In an exclusive interview with Channel 7's Unfiltered, McGovern spoke candidly about his retirement. He admitted that he had been defiant in the past when doctors wanted to pull him off the field, but acknowledged that doctors are there to protect players and emphasized the importance of respecting their decisions.
The decision to end McGovern's AFL career was not in his hands. It came after he was ordered to meet with the AFL concussion panel following an injury in Round 8. McGovern was injured in a marking contest and was subbed out of the game. After the concussion panel meeting, he was told his playing days were over.
McGovern immediately knew his AFL career was over when the panel tapped him on the shoulder. He expresses sadness about not being able to play, but accepts the situation. He reflects on his career, feeling grateful for winning a flag and playing more games than he expected.
The AFL concussion council member associated with ending McGovern's career is not publicly named in available sources. McGovern admits he had been cavalier in the past when doctors had approached him after a head knock. However, he now acknowledges the AFL's decisions are necessary for player safety.
McGovern's primary sadness is due to his love for the game. He expresses that players are starting to accept these decisions. The worst part of his retirement, he says, is the question of whether he is prioritizing his career and love of the game over his family.
Despite his retirement, McGovern affirms that while the game holds a significant place in his heart, his family is more important. Unfiltered can be streamed free on 7plus and other platforms.
McGovern's AFL career spanned 197 games. He leaves the field with a legacy of excellence and a reminder of the importance of player safety in the sport.
