Essendon's Darcy Daniher is forced into retirement at just 21 after suffering serious back, groin and shoulder injuries since he last played for the Bombers in round four, 2009.
"We are obviously very disappointed for Darcy because he is an outstanding young man with great potential who just hasn't been able to get his body right," Essendon football manager Paul Hamilton said.
"This was a difficult decision for Darcy and his family but we would like to thank him for his contribution over the past four years. Darcy is looking forward to the next chapter of his life and we wish him every success in his future endeavours."