Melbourne forward Ben Brown has decided to hang up the boots at the close of the 2024 season, following a career that spanned across two clubs.
Brown began his career at North Melbourne after being taken with Pick 47 in the 2013 National Draft.
Spending seven years and playing 130 games for the Kangaroos, slotting 287 - most from his trademark run-up - the Tasmanian made the switch to the Demos ahead of the 2021 season.
How fortuitous the move was.
Brown became a key cog in ending the 57-year premiership drought, marking the first of four years at the club.
โThis decision wasn't an easy one to come to, but I feel it's right time for my family and I that I hang up the boots after 11 seasons,โ Brown said.ย
โI've had the chance to reflect in recent weeks, and have an overwhelming sense of gratitude. To be able to live out my childhood dream, and represent two amazing clubs, is something I will forever cherish.ย
โTo the North Melbourne Football Club, thank you for giving me an opportunity, and for creating some special memories across seven seasons. I am so thankful for my time there and for the wonderful people I met along the way.ย
โTo Melbourne, thank you for welcoming me with open arms. The past four seasons have been some of my most cherished, and I've enjoyed every opportunity to represent and play for this great club.ย
โTo be able to hold the premiership cup aloft with my teammates is something I will remember forever. It's an achievement I'm incredibly proud of. I look forward to reflecting on it further in retirement, and maintaining a special bond with all involved in years to come.ย
โTo my teammates and coaches, both past and present, and all the members and supporters from both North Melbourne and Melbourne, I sincerely thank you. You have helped to make this journey unforgettable.ย โฏย
โAnd finally, to my family. To Hester, Aila and Esme, my parents and siblings, and my extended family. The past 11 years wouldn't have been possible without all of your support, through the highs and lows. I am excited for this next chapter of our lives together.โย
Brown was an effective exponent of the set-shot goal, making most of his opportunities across his 11 years in the competition, kicking a total of 360 goals.
Unfortunately the past two seasons have been marred with injuries, but the 31-year-old has still had a huge impact off the field, raising more than $90,000 for Challenge, an organisation that supports families fighting childhood cancer, to being a passionate advocate for gender equality, diversity and inclusion.
As a result, Brown was a finalist for the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award in 2018 and 2023 and has taken home the Ian Ridley Memorial Trophy (Club Ambassador Award) the past three seasons.
Alan Richardson, Melbourne's General Manager of Football, praised Brown for his contributions to the club and the game.ย
"Ben has been a tremendous asset to our club, not just for his on-field performances, but for the way he has conducted himself in the face of adversity,โ Richardson said.
โHis professionalism and dedication have set a standard for all players to follow.
โWe thank Ben for his invaluable contributions to the Melbourne Football Club and wish him, Hester, and their family all the best for the future. They will always be part of the Melbourne Football Club."ย
Fans will get an opportunity to farewell Brown on Friday as the club prepares to take on Collingwood in its final match of the 2024 season, with details to be confirmed later in the week by the club.
According to the Demons, Brown will remain as a specialist coach with Melbourne's AFLW side.
