Angus Brayshaw, a star midfielder for the Melbourne Demons, has announced his shock retirement from the AFL at the age of 28, following a brain scan that revealed microscopic changes caused by a concussion he suffered last year.
The incident that ended his career
Brayshaw was knocked unconscious in the first quarter of the qualifying final against Collingwood on September 10, 2023, when he collided with the shoulder of Brayden Maynard, who was attempting to smother his kick. The incident sparked a heated debate in the AFL community, as Maynard escaped suspension after the tribunal ruled that he was not careless in his actions.
Brayshaw did not return to the field for the rest of the game, and missed the next two matches, including the grand final, where his team won their first premiership since 1964. He was later diagnosed with a severe concussion, and underwent a series of neurological tests and scans during the off-season.
The devastating diagnosis
In February 2024, Brayshaw received the news that would change his life forever. A specialist scan showed that he had developed microscopic changes in the brain since his last concussion, which could have serious implications for his long-term health and wellbeing. He was advised by medical experts to retire from the game immediately, as playing on could expose him to further risks of brain injury.
Brayshaw said he was devastated by the decision, but respected the verdict of the medical professionals. He also hoped that his case would raise awareness and lead to positive outcomes for the future of player safety.
“I am devastated that I can no longer play the game that I love, but I respect the verdict of the medical professionals, and the importance of putting my health before my career,” he said in a statement.
“I hope from this, a terrible result for me personally, can come some positive outcomes for the future of player safety.”
The impact on the AFL and the Demons
Brayshaw’s premature retirement is a huge blow for the AFL and the Melbourne Demons, who lose one of their best and most courageous players. Brayshaw was drafted with the third pick in the 2014 national draft, and played 129 games for the club, including 22 in 2023. He finished third in the Brownlow Medal in 2018, and was a key member of the Demons’ midfield group.
He was also a respected leader and a popular teammate, who was praised for his selflessness and his passion for the game. His coach, Simon Goodwin, said he was proud of Brayshaw for his contribution to the club, and said he would always be a Melbourne person.
“When I think of Angus Brayshaw, courage, leadership, selflessness and elite football ability all come to mind,” Goodwin said.
“He has been a wonderful player for our club, and a premiership player, which is something that can never be taken away from him.
“He will always be a Melbourne person, and we will support him in whatever he chooses to do next.”
Brayshaw’s retirement also highlights the serious issue of concussion in the AFL and all contact sports, as the league faces multiple legal claims from former players over its historical management of head injuries. The AFL has made over 30 rule changes in recent years to make the game safer, including cracking down on players who leave the ground to smother and make high contact, as was the case with Maynard’s bump on Brayshaw.
The AFL’s executive general manager of football, Laura Kane, said the league supported Brayshaw’s decision to retire, and applauded his leadership for making the decision.
“Angus’s health and wellbeing is of the upmost importance and his decision, made in consultation with his medical team, is one more courageous act that Angus consistently demonstrated throughout his decorated career,” she said.
“We support Angus and his decision, and we thank him for his leadership in this space.”
