by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago
After a stellar career with the Melbourne Demons 1998-2010, Bruce was sidelined for most of 2011 due to a shoulder injury and later a knee injury. Now a back problem, which has been plaguing him for several months, has forced him to retire, with doctors telling him he could risk further damage if he continued to play. Since joining the Hawks he managed just 10 games. Bruce, 32, will remain with the Hawks to assist with coaching and leadership duties this season. He is already considering a career as a development coach.