THE desire to spend more time with her family has led Geelong defender Maddy McMahon into retirement.
The 33-year-old mother of three has made the call to hang up the boots after 32 games in four seasons after spending AFLW Season 7 on the inactive list.
McMahon was an immediate success for Geelong after previously playing top-flight basketball.
“This decision has been really difficult, as I absolutely love playing football, and I still feel capable of playing at this level, but ultimately I want to be able to spend more time with my family,” she said.
“Thank you to the Cats fans for your unwavering support and for always showing up and cheering loud.
“I will never forget the feeling of goosebumps I got when running out through the banner on game day at GMHBA Stadium, hearing the crowd cheering so loud.”
In McMahon’s last season, she made the All-Australian squad and finished third in Geelong’s best-and-fairest.
“She certainly was a catalyst for our strong defence, in Season 6 in particular,” coach Dan Lowther said.
“Her grit, determination and the way she put her body on the line was a standout and a real driver for her teammates. Our players have been able to carry that on, following her lead.
“I’ve always admired the way she approaches her footy, and I’m pleased she has been able to go out on her terms.
“Maddy has left her fingerprints in our DNA of how we expect to defend against opposition.”
McMahon joins Maddy Keryk, traded to Port Adelaide yesterday (Thursday), Georgia Clarke and Kalani Scoullar in departing the club.
Clarke and Scoullar have both been delisted.
Clarke played 22 games in four seasons after being selected in the 2018 National Draft, while Scoullar made two AFLW appearances after signing with the Cats ahead of Season 7.
“Georgia has been part of establishing the foundations of our AFLW program, and we will always be grateful for her contribution,” Geelong AFLW boss Brett Johnson said.
“Georgia is a hard worker and has been a valued member of our squad, and has made her mark in history as one of our inaugural listed players.
“We know Georgia will embark on her next chapter with the same diligence she has shown in her time with our AFLW program.
“Kalani has been a great presence around our group and has made a solid start as a developing young ruck.”
Twitter: @krockfootball
