Ben Brown to Retire After 2024 Season

In a heartfelt announcement, Ben Brown, the Melbourne AFL premiership player, has decided to retire from football at the end of the 2024 season.

The 31-year-old forward has had an impressive career, spanning two clubs over 11 seasons, during which he played 175 games and kicked 360 goals.

Brown began his journey with North Melbourne in 2014, where he became known as one of the league’s most reliable key forwards and took home the leading goalkicker award four times.

In late 2020, he made the move to the Melbourne Demons, making an immediate impact and helping secure the club’s premiership win the following year.

Reflecting on his decision, Brown shared that it wasn’t easy but felt it was the right time for him and his family. He expressed gratitude for having lived his childhood dream and for the opportunities he had at both clubs.

He specifically thanked North Melbourne for the special memories made during his seven seasons there, and he praised Melbourne for the welcoming environment and cherished experiences during his four seasons with them.

“Holding the premiership cup aloft with my teammates is an achievement I’m incredibly proud of,” Brown stated. He also thanked his coaches, teammates, members, and supporters for making his journey unforgettable.

During his career, Brown faced injury setbacks but remained dedicated to both his sport and community. He has raised over $90,000 for Challenge, an organization that supports families facing childhood cancer, and has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion.

Alan Richardson, Melbourne’s General Manager of Football, praised Brown for his professionalism and contributions, noting that he set a high standard for his fellow players.

Fans will have the chance to bid farewell to Brown at Melbourne’s Round 24 match against Collingwood, with more details to be announced soon.

Even as he retires from playing, Brown will continue as a Talls Specialist Coach for Melbourne’s AFLW side, a position he has held since 2022, where he also celebrated coaching success.