Hawthorn ruckman Max Lynch will retire from football after an AFL Independent Medical Concussion Panel recommended that he cease participation in contact sport permanently. 

Lynch was added to the club’s long term injury list in May this year after he was subbed out of the Round 6 match against Adelaide with concussion.

The 24-year-old has been in regular consultation with club’s medical team, and has also taken on a role as Development Coach for the AFLW team in recent months.

General Manager of Football Rob McCartney said the recommendation was made in Max’s best interest for his future and that he would continue to have the club’s full support.

“Since entering the long-term injury list, Max has worked closely with out medical team to return to full cognitive baseline following his most recent concussion. This decision is to reduce any risk of future injuries that could change this situation,” McCartney said.

“What I have been most impressed by is the resilience he has shown with the challenges that have been put in front of him.

“He is a much-loved member of the Hawthorn family, a great teammate and even better person.

“We will continue to support Max in any way we can as he embarks on the next phase of his life and career off the field.”

Lynch addressed the Hawthorn playing group on Tuesday to announce his retirement and share the recommendations from the AFL Independent Medical Concussion Panel.

“This definitely isn’t how I wanted my career to come to an end, but I accept the decision and know it is the right one for my future,” Lynch said.

“I want to thank the club for its support throughout the entire process, to have all of my teammates and coaches behind me has helped me immensely through this challenging period of my life.”