by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago
Just as Round 19 was underway, and amid the Adam Goodes controversy, Kangaroo player Leigh Adams quietly announced his retirement from football. Adams, nicknamed "Patch", has suffered a few head knocks and concussions over the course of his career and consulted North Melbourne medical staff as well as several specialists before making his decision. Adams, 27, took the medical advice and decided his health must take priority.
Adams, who was known for his fierce attack on the ball and a willingness to throw himself into contests, suffered a concussion late in 2014 and missed that Finals series.
Adams also required minor knee surgery which interrupted his 2015 preseason. He was making his way back through the VFL when he suffered a head knock which sidelined him once more. Once recovered, he was again playing in the VFL when he suffered another glancing blow. After meeting with specialists, it was decided that had to be the last blow. He has made a recovery from the latest concussion with no lingering effects.
Coach Brad Scott said Adams did not always get the recognition he deserved outside of the club, but that his commitment to the game and his teammates was second to none. "It's a real credit to Patch ... he redefined that forward/midfielder role in today's footy. He really did play that role as well as any player in the competition ... Patch was such a highly valued person and highly valued performer for us ... But we know there are things that are more important ... I'm proud of the way everyone has supported Patch through a really difficult time and certainly support his decision."
Adams captained the 2006 Vic Metro team but a hip injury restricted him from testing at the draft camp. He was then overlooked in the national draft. Both Essendon and North invited him to training ahead of the rookie draft but it was the Kangaroos who selected him and he debuted the following year. He went on to play 104 games and kicked 72 goals.
Source: abc.net.au, Paul Riordan, North Melbourne Media Release
Article last changed on Monday, August 10, 2015 - 9:28 PM EDT