Hawthorn ruckman announces retirement following concussion panel’s recommendation

Hawthorn ruckman Max Lynch has announced his retirement from AFL football following an AFL Independent Medical Concussion Panel's recommendation that he stops playing contact sport permanently.

The 24-year-old swapped Collingwood for Hawthorn following the 2021 season, however, the ruckman only managed eight senior games in Hawks colours due to plaguing injury.

Earlier this season, Lynch had been placed on Hawthorn's long-term injury list and ruled out for the season due to a head injury sustained against the Adelaide Crows in Round 6.

Lynch, while in regular consultation with club's medical team, had also taken on a role as Development Coach for Hawthorn's AFLW team in recent months.

General Manager of Football Rob McCartney stated the recommendation was made with Max's best interests for his future in mind, adding the ex-Magpie would always have the club's full support.

“Since entering the long-term injury list, Max has worked closely with our medical team to return to full cognitive baseline following his most recent concussion. This decision is to reduce any risk of future injuries that could change this situation,” McCartney said as part of a club statement on Tuesday afternoon.

“What I have been most impressed by is the resilience he has shown with the challenges that have been put in front of him.

“He is a much-loved member of the Hawthorn family, a great teammate and even better person.

“We will continue to support Max in any way we can as he embarks on the next phase of his life and career off the field.”

Lynch addressed his Hawks teammates on Tuesday to announce his retirement from the game, sharing the recommendations from the AFL Independent Medical Concussion Panel.

“This definitely isn't how I wanted my career to come to an end, but I accept the decision and know it is the right one for my future,” Lynch said as part of the club statement.

“I want to thank the club for its support throughout the entire process, to have all of my teammates and coaches behind me has helped me immensely through this challenging period of my life.”