Daniel Merrett has announced that he will retire from football at the end of 2016.
The 31-year-old informed the Lions playing group of his decision on Tuesday afternoon.
Taking on some of the game’s best key forwards, Merrett has been a mainstay in the Lions’ backline since 2005 after initially being drafted as a forward at the end of 2002.
He will notch up a career milestone next weekend by lining up against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium in his 200th AFL game and farewell match.
Merrett said he felt the time was right to hang up the boots after 14 seasons at the Brisbane Lions.
“I can’t really talk, but I suppose you know what I’m going to say,” an emotional Merrett told players and staff.
“I thought I wanted to play on next year, I thought if you’re able to play, if you’re capable – keep going. But, I probably sat down on the weekend and thought, 'what do I value in life the most?' And that’s my family.
“For the last five years it’s been bloody hard, copping 60, 70 inside 50s every week playing full back on the best forwards, it’s bloody stressful.
“I just want to give more time to my family and it probably feels like a little bit of the fire has burnt out inside. The one thing that has kept me going is the knowledge I can share with the younger guys, particularly the defenders. It’s one of the main reasons I play.
“I can see the future is so bright.
“For the last 12 years I’ve been playing seniors we haven’t had a whole deal of success. It’s been pretty tough but I wouldn’t give it up for anything.
“How can you complain about this job? I’ve never taken it for granted. It’s shown this year with Jase (Justin) Clarke something can be taken away from you in a second.
“When I got drafted, I was a bit of a spud. I was probably taken on potential more than anything. I’m pretty proud of where I’ve come from.”
Merrett will continue to help out at the Club next season, guiding the Lions’ young defenders as well as helping out in welfare.
“Hopefully we get through this week and next week’s my 200th , I’ll hang them up after that. It’s something I’ll really be proud of.
“We’ve had a lot of outside noise but as a group we’ve been solid. It has been enjoyable around the Club.
“It’s the best job in the world and to do it as long as I did, I’m very grateful for that.”
Congrats to @Merrett21 on your career mate. Got the most out of yourself and a great team mate
— Tom Rockliff (@rockwiz38) August 16, 2016
What a great team man @Merrett21 enjoy retirement mate you have earned it
— Claye Beams (@ClayeBeams) August 16, 2016
Been a bloody privilege to play with @Merrett21 a humble champion sums Dan up I reckon. On ya sauce. #DayumDaniel
— Nick Robertson (@nichrobbo) August 16, 2016
Congratulations on great career @Merrett21 , I've learnt a lot from you both on and off the field. Always a pleasure playing with you.
— Marco Paparone (@paparoneee) August 16, 2016
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