GIANTS ruckman Shane Mumford has today announced his retirement following extensive medical consultation.
Mumford has battled degenerative ankle and knee problems for several years in addition to sustaining a number of significant injuries, the most recent being a fractured foot suffered in the GIANTS’ Qualifying Final against Adelaide that led to him missing the club’s following two finals.
This injury followed a serious ankle injury midway through 2015 that led the veteran ruckman missing the remainder of the season and undergoing an ankle reconstruction.
While the 31-year-old’s outstanding playing career has come to an end, the GIANTS are pleased to advise that Mumford will remain with the club as part-time ruck coach.
Mumford retires after 172 games at Geelong, Sydney and the GIANTS after making his debut for the Cats in 2008. He was part of the Swans’ Premiership team of 2012 before crossing to the GIANTS in 2014, where he played 72 games for the AFL’s youngest club.
GIANTS General Manager of Football Wayne Campbell said Mumford’s legacy at the GIANTS will always be revered.
“There’s no doubt Shane has put his body through a lot in the last 10 years and unfortunately injury has ultimately led to his retirement,” Campbell said.
“Both on and off field Shane’s impact on the club has been profound - has been a key member of the GIANTS playing group and has been integral to our growth in Western Sydney and the ACT.
“He has been a hugely popular member of our playing group and we’re delighted Shane will continue be involved with the GIANTS, helping the likes of Rory Lobb, Dawson Simpson and Matthew Flynn.”
Mumford said he’ll look back fondly on his decorated playing career.
“While my mind was ready to go for another season, the medical advice told me something very different,” Mumford said.
“I’ve loved my time playing for the GIANTS but I know this is the right decision when it comes to being able to play with my kids for years to come.
“I couldn’t have asked for more from the past decade in the AFL and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me along this journey.
“I’m excited about the next stage of my life and continuing to help the GIANTS in a role I’m really looking forward to.”
The hulking ruckman quickly became a fan favourite at the GIANTS, playing 72 games across four seasons and winning the 2014 Kevin Sheedy Medal as Club Champion in his first year at the club.
