Jake Kolodjashnij retires after Cats concussion scandal; Pearce avoids Achilles surgery

Geelong premiership defender Jake Kolodjashnij, who was at the centre of a secret concussion deal with the club, has been medically retired from AFL football.

In August, Kolodjashnij identified himself as the player at the centre of the deal with Geelong that waived his legal responsibility for future on-field head trauma.

The Cats were hit with a $140,000 fine after the AFL’s independent review by James Peters, KC, found the waiver constituted a variation of Kolodjashnij’s playing contract and should have been lodged so it could be scrutinised by the league and the AFL Players’ Association.

Geelong announced Kolodjashnij’s retirement on Tueday afternoon, with club’s football boss Andrew Mackie heralding the premiership’s player impact both on and off the field.

“Jake built a reputation as one of the competition’s most reliable defenders – his coaches and teammates had complete confidence he would take on whatever role was required and get the job done,” he said.

“His career has been defined by consistency, resilience and selflessness. The determination and professionalism he displayed throughout his journey are qualities that made him such a valued teammate and person within our football club.

“Jake should be incredibly proud of everything he has achieved across his career, as we certainly are.”

The 31-year-old key defender retires after 209 top-flight games since he was drafted out of Tasmania with pick No.41 in 2013.

In a statement, Kolodjashnij said was grateful for all the memories made at the Cats.

“ Football has been such a significant part of my life. I feel lucky to have shared it with some of my closest friends, and to have had the on-field success that we had during my time at the club.”

More to come

Keep up to date with the best AFL coverage in the country. Sign up for the Real Footy newsletter.