Hawthorn Captain Ben McEvoy has called time on his decorated career, announcing his retirement at the end of the 2022 season.

The 33-year-old told teammates and coaches of his decision on Wednesday, drawing to a close a memorable 15 years at the top level.

McEvoy will leave the game a dual-premiership player, having played in two of Hawthorn’s three-peat Grand Final wins in 2014 and 2015.

After being selected by St Kilda with Pick 9 in the 2007 national draft, the talented ruckman joined Hawthorn at the end of the 2013 season.

Widely celebrated as one of the league’s most courageous players, McEvoy quickly cemented himself as a fan-favourite and respected teammate in the brown and gold.

So much so, McEvoy was appointed Hawthorn captain ahead of the 2021 season, making him the first captain in the club’s history to begin his career at another club.

But arguably season 2022 has been McEvoy’s most remarkable, after being confronted with the enormous adversity of suffering a broken neck in a training session in March.

Demonstrating a relentless determination and tenacity, McEvoy spent more than 14 weeks on the sidelines completing a meticulous rehabilitation program to make a successful comeback in July.

Just weeks later, McEvoy would celebrate his 250-game milestone with his beloved family before making a call on his future.

“I have an enormous amount to be grateful for across my whole journey,” McEvoy said.

“Football can be a selfish existence at times and I am incredibly thankful for the unconditional support I have had from my family.

“I also want to thank my teammates, coaches, fitness staff, volunteers, and supporters, who have all contributed to me being able to perform at my best.

“I feel very privileged to have played out the career I have and still pinch myself as to how fortunate I have been.”

Head of Football Rob McCartney paid tribute to McEvoy following his decision to hang up the boots.

“Ben has made an enormous contribution during his nine years at Hawthorn,” McCartney said.

“A premiership player in 2014 and 2015, Ben’s ability to be among our most consistent performers across the journey has been quite remarkable.

"He will be remembered as a player who had a strong desire to compete.

"More importantly, Ben has always been totally selfless in nature, always willing to put the team in front of any individual benefit.

"I have no doubt through deeds and actions Ben has left the number 7 in a better place than when he received it.

“He will be remembered among Hawthorn’s greats, and we look forward to celebrating his final two games in the brown and gold.”