ONE OF the AFL's greatest Irish imports has called time on his career, with Gold Coast's Pearce Hanley announcing his retirement.
The decision is effective immediately.
WHO'S LEAVING? Your club's retirements and delistings
Hanley, 31, played 169 games after making his debut as a 19-year-old in 2008.
The Irishman was originally recruited by Brisbane from County Mayo in 2007, playing 129 games for the Lions before joining the Suns ahead of the 2017 season.
Injuries cruelled his time at Carrara, restricting him to just 40 games in four seasons.
Hanley told his teammates of his decision on Wednesday afternoon.
"It's obviously been on my mind for a while and I made the decision a few days ago and haven't had any regrets since," he said.
"I think great clubs are built off great people and the Suns have that.
"I'll continue to be on this journey with them, but I’ll be watching on from the stands."
At his best Hanley was a dashing and creative wingman who could also spend time on-ball.
For a player that took the game up in his late teens, he had exquisite kicking skills and could tear games apart on his own.
Gold Coast's general manager of football operations Jon Haines said Hanley's leadership had been crucial in recent seasons and he would always be part of the club's family.
