Late August Delistings and Retirements

At the end of August, the Western Bulldogs delisted Mitch Hannan. Essendon delisted Alistair Lord, Rhett Montgomerie, and Cian McBride. Geelong player Sam Menegola retired. Brisbane defender Marcus Adams also retired. Hawthorn forward Tyler Brockman wants to go back to Western Australia. 

Geelong midfielder Sam Menegola retired after Round 24. He was originally drafted by Hawthorn in 2011 as a rookie but was delisted at the end of the year. The Dockers selected him as a rookie 2012 but he never debuted for them either and was delisted after three seasons. He played in the WAFL in 2015 and was eventually drafted by the Cats t the end of 2015. He played 117 games and kicked 83 goals for the Cats. His 2023 season was marred by injuries. He said, “The time I have had at Geelong has had an immeasurable impact on our lives. I have enjoyed successes, faced challenges, learnt lessons, and developed relationships that will stay with me for a long time. I have had a chance to fulfil a lifelong dream ... ".

General Manager Simon Lloyd said,

" ... he has been an integral and consistent member of our midfield group with his ability to run both ways, find plenty of the ball and regularly hit the scoreboard being among his greatest strengths ... He sets extremely high standards when it comes to preparation, training, and on matchday. His work ethic and professionalism are something to behold, and a wonderful example for any young player ... Sam has shown resilience throughout his career, repeatedly returning from injury setbacks to play at the highest level. Although this season hasn’t gone as planned, Sam has been an invaluable mentor to our younger midfielders ... ".

Hannan, 29, began with Melbourne before being traded to The Bulldogs at the end of 2020. He played 30 games and kicked 21 goals for the Dogs. Essendon has delisted Alistair Lord, Rhett Montgomerie and Irish recruit Cian McBride. Of the three. only Lord featured in any senior games, playing match in 2022.

Brisbane defender Marcus Adams, 30, has been forced to retire due to ongoing concussion issues after being advised he should no longer play contact sports. Adams suffered a delayed concussion following a match against Carlton last August and has not played since. The club placed him on the inactive list. Adams played 27 games for the Western Bulldogs before crossing to the Lions where he played 73 games.

In making the announcement he said, "While no part of me really wants to let it go, I know it's the right decision for me. The whole journey is something I will remember very fondly, and even though it hasn't ended how I would've liked, it has been the best experience I could have hoped for ... Thanks to the club for giving me the opportunity, supporting me, helping me grow as a footballer and person. It has been great to be a part of. I've been lucky to meet so many wonderful people and make many friends for life. It has been difficult and sad not being able to be part of the great campaign the group has had this year ...".

Hawthorn small forward Tyler Brockman has requested a trade back to his home state of Western Australia. Brockman was drafted in 2020 and played 26 games for the Hawks. 

Source: foxsports.com.au, afl.com.au, sen.com.au