Hawthorn Football Club utility Jack Fitzpatrick has today announced his retirement from AFL football.

The 26 year-old, who has not played since suffering concussion in Round 8, has been advised by doctors to retire from the game.

“It’s unfortunate that I’m unable to play the game I love any longer, but I’m rapt to have had the opportunity to be a part of two great clubs,” Fitzpatrick said.

“The medical attention and care I’ve received from the club doctors has been outstanding and I really appreciate the support I’ve been shown from everyone at the club during what has been a pretty difficult time.

“I would like to thank Hawthorn for the opportunity to play in the brown and gold, the colours I grew up wearing as a kid, and to Melbourne for the six years of memories created during my time at the Dees.

“The friendships I have formed at both clubs will be something I will always be grateful for.”

General Manager Football Operations Jason Burt said:

“Jack’s played some really good footy for us since coming across from Melbourne and we have been lucky to have him at the Hawks for the past two seasons.

“The medical advice Jack and the club has followed has always centred around his long-term health and welfare.

“Jack is a fantastic character and I have no doubt that he will succeed in whatever he decides to take on next.”

Fitzpatrick was drafted by Melbourne Football Club in 2009 with pick no.50 where he went on to play 22 games. He was then traded to Hawthorn in 2015, managing four games in the brown and gold including two finals in 2016.