JUST days after losing his second Grand Final with the Sydney Swans, veteran Ben McGlynn has announced his retirement from senior football.
McGlynn, who told his teammates of his decision ahead of Thursday night's Bob Skilton Medal count in Sydney, played 171 games and kicked 195 goals over 11 seasons for Hawthorn and the Swans.
The 31-year-old missed his chance at premiership glory in 2012 when he was ruled out of the Swans' famous win over the Hawks with a hamstring injury, and couldn't help his side to victory in losses to Hawthorn in 2014 and the Western Bulldogs this season.
The small forward booted at least 30 goals for three consecutive seasons from 2011-2013, and at his best was a vital part of the Swans' forward line, with his tackling pressure making him a constant threat to the opposition.
"I'd like to thank the Sydney Swans for the opportunity to pursue my dream, and the Hawthorn Football Club for the start of my career," McGlynn said on Thursday.
"But there's no doubt my family has been my biggest inspiration along the journey, and I wouldn't have been able to do what I've done without their support.
"The past seven years here at the Swans has been a highlight of my life, and there so many memories I will cherish forever.
"I'm especially going to miss running out and competing each weekend because that's what I've always loved doing, but I've still got a lot of passion for the game, and would love to stay involved in the industry."
Swans coach John Longmire paid tribute to the McGlynn for the way he had impacted the club.
"Despite his relatively short stature, Ben has had a big influence on the team both on and off the field," he said.
"The way he played his football gave the team real energy.
"He was hard, committed, he really valued the things we value as a team, and he did them really well.
"When Ben was firing the team was a much better team, because he was able to make those around him better."
The Swans also announced that ruckman Tom Derickx has retired while rookie Kyle Galloway has been delisted.
Derickx, 28, joined the Swans from Richmond at the end of 2013 as a delisted free agent.
He made his debut for the Swans in round two, 2014, and played 12 games.
Galloway, 19, was recruited as a Category B Rookie from Deniliquin in country NSW and played in the NEAFL this season.