Adelaide defender Fischer McAsey has made the shock decision to step away from the AFL.
The 21-year-old was drafted with pick No.6 in the 2019 National Draft and was granted personal leave in November to remain with his family in Melbourne.
Following the club’s Christmas break, McAsey informed the Crows that he no longer wishes to play at the elite level following 10 AFL games.
McAsey thanked the club for their support as he cited a lack of enjoyment and desire to improve as reason to step away from his young career.
“Unfortunately, I have lost a lot of the enjoyment and desire to improve which is required to make it at the top level,” McAsey said via a statement.
“It has been an extremely difficult decision to come to, and one that I haven’t taken lightly, but through discussions with close friends and family, the Club and my management, I feel that it is the right decision for my long-term future and well-being.
“I am very grateful to the Club for their support and allowing me some time to reflect on where I want to be moving forward.
“There has been a large number of people who have worked very hard on my development as a player and person, and for that I’m highly appreciative.
“Not everyone will understand the decision, but I’m comfortable with the path that I’m headed, and am excited by the ability to pursue other interests.
“I will always be thankful to the Crows for giving me the opportunity to live out a boyhood dream, and I wish everyone at the Club the best for 2023 and beyond.”
Adelaide head of football Adam Kelly says the club respects McAsey’s decision.
“The welfare of our players is always our top priority and while we are naturally disappointed to see Fischer step away, we understand the reasons behind his decision and there is much more to life than football,” Kelly said.
“We were fully supportive of his request for personal leave in November and remained in regular communication with both Fischer and his management during the past two months.
“We respect his decision and we would like to thank him for his contribution, and he will always be welcome at our Club.”
McAsey played all 10 of his AFL games in season 2020.
He has been placed on the club’s inactive list for the 2023 season.