Collingwood midfielder Josh Carmichael has made the tough call to announce his retirement following a recommendation from the AFL's concussion panel.
Carmichael has suffered multiple knocks in the past 12 months and hasn't been cited on the field since May 4 as symptoms continued to linger.
The 24-year-old also copped a high hit in pre-season training late in 2023.
Carmichael burst onto the scene after being selected with Pick 9 in the 2022 Mid-Season Draft from SANFL club West Adelaide.
Pies coach Craig McRae saw a spot for the right-footer in the line-up almost immediately, debuting in Round 17 against North Melbourne and keeping his spot in the side including operating as the untried sub in the semi-final clash with Fremantle.
However, 2023 wasn't as prosperous for Carmichael, featuring in only one game against Richmond as he witnessed his teammates' dream run to a premiership.
โThe past couple of months have been a difficult and uncertain time for me but I have comfort now knowing the direction of my future, and disappointingly that is not playing Australian football," Carmichael said.
โFooty has been a huge part of my sporting life over the years and I have loved being part of the Collingwood Football Club, but my priority is on my future and ensuring I live a full and healthy life.
โI'd like to thank the Club, my coaches, teammates, and staff for all their support throughout my playing career at Collingwood and to everyone who has supported me along my football journey.
โI never imagined getting drafted to an AFL club, especially one like Collingwood and I'll be forever grateful. I have made so many lifelong friends along the journey which is what footy is all about. As for the learnings, opportunities and experiences during my time here, I will forever cherish these and hold the memories close to my heart.
โTo my family and friends, thank you so much for your love and support during this time. Not only recently but the whole journey. Always believing in me. No matter what.โ
The South Australian was rewarded with a one-year extension until the end of 2024 following impressive VFL form.
Carmichael is the fourth player this season to retire due to medical reasons, following former Collingwood teammate, Nathan Murphy, Melbourne premiership player Angus Brayshaw and untried Western Bulldogs youngster Aiden O'Driscollย as a result of concussive effects.
