• Who's hanging up the boots? 2015's retirements and delistings
ONGOING symptoms from a concussion received two months ago have forced Brisbane Lions defender Matt Maguire to retire.
Maguire has not played since being heavily concussed in a NEAFL game against Ainslie at Coorparoo on April 25.
Lions medical staff, in consultation with concussion specialists, were confident Maguire would make a full recovery, but it was unclear when he would be ready to play again.
"I can’t get out there and play footy so the decision was made pretty easily for me," Maguire told the playing group today.
"I can be proud of what I’ve been able to achieve in footy.
"I’ve been able to come to this point and be proud that I’ve been able to get the most out of myself."
Maguire began his career in 2002 with the Saints, where he played 99 games before a badly broken leg halted his career.
He fought back to full fitness and was signed by the Lions at the end of 2009.
He defied the odds at his new club, signing six successive one-year deals and playing 71 games with his aggression and physical presence a hallmark.
"I’ve been really fortunate to play for two great clubs – I’ve loved my time here at the Lions," Maguire said.
"It’s been great to be able to continually challenge myself and get the best out of myself for the past six years up here.
Coach Justin Leppitsch said Maguire had left a great legacy in helping develop the club’s current crop of young defenders.
"This club is better for having Goose in it," Leppitsch said.
"The next generation here can take a lot out of what you’ve given them over the last few years."
Maguire will be honoured with a lap of honour at the Gabba on Saturday evening during the half-time break of the match against Adelaide.
Well done to big Matty Maguire on his career. Got the most out of himself, can be very proud of his career pic.twitter.com/VmG8kZoOyW
— Tom Rockliff (@rockwiz38) June 23, 2015