In a surprising turn of events, Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan disclosed that Joe Daniher had been seriously considering retirement for some time. Just days after leading his team to an impressive victory in the AFL Grand Final, where he played a pivotal role in a 60-point triumph over the Sydney Swans, Daniher decided to step away from football. His decision came after an exhilarating match where he scored two goals, and his emotional celebration, especially after his second goal, suggested a significant moment was unfolding for the veteran forward.
Fagan shared that Daniher had already contemplated leaving the sport last year. The heartbreak of losing to Collingwood in the 2023 Grand Final had motivated him to push for one last chance at glory in 2024. Speaking at the Brisbane Lions’ Merrett-Murray Medal event, Fagan recounted their conversation after last year’s final, revealing Daniher’s intent to retire had they clinched the premiership. “I was relieved to hear he wanted to give it another shot,” Fagan stated, expressing his delight that Daniher could retire on a high note, following such a monumental victory.
Journalist Tom Morris later revealed that a select group of Daniher’s teammates were aware that the 2024 Grand Final would mark the end of his playing career, regardless of the outcome. While not everyone on the team knew, it wasn’t a complete shock. The club had tried to convince him to reconsider his decision, but Daniher remained steadfast, wanting to exit the game while still fully engaged, stating, “I can’t be here if I’m not fully invested.”
As he wraps up his career, Daniher leaves behind an impressive legacy of 204 games, split between Essendon and Brisbane, along with 395 goals. He earned accolades throughout his time in the league, including a best and fairest award at Essendon and being a six-time leading goal kicker. His journey through 12 seasons has been marked by unforgettable moments, showcasing both his talents and contributions to the sport.
Looking ahead, the Lions are already on the hunt for a replacement for their marquee forward. Football boss Danny Daly has indicated that the club has been proactive in identifying potential key forward targets during the upcoming trade window. While they acknowledge the challenges of securing top talent, the Lions are committed to improving their roster. Daly emphasized the importance of exploring all options to ensure the team remains competitive and successful in the future, stating their intent to pursue notable names in the league, while also considering homegrown talents.