AFL 2022: Hawthorn captain Ben McEvoy to retire at end of the season

Just a few days after reaching his 250-game milestone, Hawthorn captain Ben McEvoy has announced his retirement.

Ben McEvoy enjoyed plenty of success at Hawthorn. Picture: David Caird

Hawthorn will need a new captain in 2023 after skipper Ben McEvoy declared his “petrol tank is on about empty” as he announced his retirement to his teammates.

Having overcome significant hurdles to return from a broken neck this season, McEvoy, 33, told the Hawks players and coaches of his decision on Wednesday, deciding to bring to an end his 15-year AFL career which began at St Kilda.

McEvoy will retire as a dual-premiership player, having played in two of Hawthorn’s three-peat grand final wins in 2014 and 2015 after crossing from the Saints. at the end of the 2013 season.

Appointed captain at the beginning of the 2021 season, the first Hawthorn captain to begin his career at another club, McEvoy suffered a broken neck in a training session in March.

The ruckman spent more than 14 weeks on the sidelines completing a meticulous rehabilitation program to make a successful comeback in round 17 and played his 250th game last weekend.

“It’s been a hell of a ride but it’s time for me to hang the boots up. It’s not been easy but I am really content that it’s my time to finish up,” McEvoy said.

“It’s not like I am getting pushed out the door by any stretch.

“I just feel like the time is right for me and the petrol tank is about on empty and I don’t think it would be fair to you guys or anyone else to be here if I feel like I can’t pull enough weight.

“I have an enormous amount to be grateful for across my whole journey.

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

Hawks Captain Ben McEvoy has called time on his decorated career, announcing he will retire at the end of the season. 💛

📝 : https://t.co/gTg1RMMViFpic.twitter.com/fGbusGEFSV

— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) August 10, 2022

“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.”

McEvoy began his career in 2008 at St Kilda, playing 91 games with the Saints before making his mark at Hawthorn.

All-Australian defender James Sicily would be the front-runner to replace McEvoy, having shared captaincy duties with Jaeger O’Meara during the skipper’s absence this season.

Sicily also re-committed long-term to the Hawks earlier this season.