Collingwood’s Josh Carmichael has had to retire due to persistent concussion symptoms. The 24-year-old played eight senior games over two and a half seasons with the Magpies after being drafted at No.9 in the 2022 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft.
Carmichael debuted in round 17, 2022, and played seven games that season, including the Magpies’ semi-final loss to Fremantle. He played just one senior game in 2023, in round three against Richmond, and none in 2024, but continued to contribute at the VFL level until his final game against Southport in round six.
Since that game, Carmichael has been unable to train and was placed on the long-term injury list due to concussion issues. After consulting an independent medical panel convened by the AFL, he was advised to retire from all contact sports.
“The past couple of months have been a difficult and uncertain time for me, but I have comfort now knowing the direction of my future, and disappointingly that is not playing Australian football,” Carmichael said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Footy has been a huge part of my sporting life over the years, and I have loved being part of the Collingwood Football Club, but my priority is on my future and ensuring I live a full and healthy life.
“I’d like to thank the club, my coaches, teammates, and staff for all their support throughout my playing career at Collingwood and to everyone who has supported me along my football journey. I never imagined getting drafted to an AFL club, especially one like Collingwood, and I’ll be forever grateful. I have made so many lifelong friends along the journey, which is what footy is all about. As for the learnings, opportunities, and experiences during my time here, I will forever cherish these and hold the memories close to my heart.
“To my family and friends, thank you so much for your love and support during this time. Not only recently but the whole journey. Always believing in me. No matter what.”
Carmichael joins several players who have retired this year due to medical advice after battling concussion, including former Collingwood teammate Nathan Murphy, Melbourne premiership player Angus Brayshaw, and Western Bulldogs draftee Aiden O’Driscoll.
