Brisbane Lions midfielder Jarryd Lyons has announced that he will retire at the conclusion of the club’s 2024 finals campaign. The 32-year-old shared the news with his teammates during training at the Gabba on Tuesday, reflecting on his 14-season, 194-game career across three AFL clubs.
Lyons, who played for Brisbane (102 games), Gold Coast (37 games), and Adelaide (55 games), expressed his gratitude to each club for shaping his career. Initially selected by Adelaide with pick 61 in the 2010 national draft, he joined the Lions in 2019 via Gold Coast and went on to become a key part of Brisbane’s midfield.
Reflecting on his journey, Lyons said, “My career was at a crossroads, and this club gave me a lifeline. What could have been a short 100-game career turned into something I’m incredibly proud of. I’ll miss the camaraderie and going to work with the boys every day, but now it’s time to focus on making this finals run last as long as possible.”
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 02: Jarryd Lyons of the Lions in action during the VFL Qualifying Final match between Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions at Heritage Bank Stadium on September 02, 2023 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
Lyons’ announcement comes as the Lions prepare for a deep finals push, with the midfielder choosing to step back so the club can fully focus on its campaign. Despite his reluctance to talk about himself, Lions senior coach Chris Fagan was full of praise for Lyons’ contributions, both on and off the field.
“Jarryd arrived with his career at a crossroads, but over the next five or six years, he became one of the best midfielders in the AFL,” Fagan said. “He was one of the toughest players to go up against, excelling in stoppages and with his footy smarts. His impact on the field was matched by his dedication and attitude, which helped drive our rise up the ladder.”
Lyons’ career includes highlights such as a career-best 39 disposals against North Melbourne and 14 clearances against Carlton. He also claimed the J.J. Liston Trophy as the VFL’s Best and Fairest in 2023, showcasing his high standards even when playing outside the AFL.
Fagan concluded by thanking Lyons, his wife Savahna, and their children Seb and Lara for their contributions to the club, emphasizing the lasting impact Lyons has had on the Lions’ success.
As Lyons prepares for the next chapter, his leadership and contributions will be remembered as a key part of Brisbane’s journey in recent years.
