In a surprising turn of events, Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan has disclosed that Joe Daniher has been considering retirement for some time. This revelation comes just days after Daniher played a pivotal role in the Lions’ impressive 60-point victory over the Sydney Swans in the AFL Grand Final. Following the win, Daniher decided to forgo the final year of his contract, signaling the end of his playing career. His emotional celebration during the game, where he leaped into the air after scoring a goal, suggested that this moment was monumental for him, potentially marking the conclusion of his journey in professional football.
Fagan revealed that Daniher was initially prepared to retire after the 2023 season if the Lions had claimed the premiership that year. The heartbreaking loss to Collingwood in last year’s Grand Final motivated him to return for one more season, hoping to achieve championship glory. Reflecting on their discussion, Fagan noted, “Last year after the Grand Final, Joey called me for a meeting. He expressed that he was ready to hang up his boots, but after our loss, he decided to give it one last shot. I’m thrilled that he got to end his career on such a high note.”
Additionally, reports have surfaced suggesting that several of Daniher’s teammates were aware that the 2024 Grand Final would be his last appearance, regardless of the outcome. Journalist Tom Morris indicated that while not the entire team was informed, five to ten senior players knew of Daniher’s intentions. The club attempted to persuade him to reconsider his decision, but Daniher remained firm, stating, “I can’t be here if I’m not fully invested,” emphasizing his desire to leave the game on a positive note.
Daniher’s career spans 204 games—108 with Essendon and 96 with Brisbane—during which he scored a total of 395 goals. His impressive accolades include winning a best and fairest award and being a six-time leading goal kicker across 12 seasons, which showcases his remarkable impact on the field. His departure will leave a notable void in the Lions’ lineup, and the club is now faced with the task of finding a suitable replacement for their marquee forward.
Looking ahead, the Lions are actively exploring potential key forwards to fill the gap left by Daniher. Football boss Danny Daly mentioned that they have already begun identifying targets in anticipation of the trade window. The search for top-tier forwards is challenging, as many are under contract, but the club remains determined to enhance their roster. Names such as Richmond’s Tom Lynch, Carlton’s Harry McKay, and St Kilda’s Max King have been highlighted as potential targets, illustrating the Lions’ ambition to maintain a competitive edge moving forward.
As the Brisbane Lions navigate this transition, Daniher’s legacy will undoubtedly resonate within the team and the AFL community. His contributions on and off the field have created unforgettable moments, and his exit marks the end of a significant chapter in the club’s history. The Lions are now poised to look toward the future while honoring the remarkable career of Joe Daniher.