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Shane Mumford announces AFL retirement

AFL

Shane Mumford's combative approach has eventually taken its toll with the imposing ruckman forced into AFL retirement after fracturing his left foot.

Mumford damaged his navicular in week one of the finals -- the same bone that caused Essendon icon James Hird so much grief and ruined the career of former Melbourne captain Jack Trengove.

Mumford risked serious long-term damage if he attempted to extend a 172-game career, the highlight of which was winning the 2012 premiership with Sydney.

The 31-year-old remarkably attempted to run on his busted left foot last month, wanting to return in the Giants' finals campaign.

But after recently consulting with a number of specialists he was forced to face facts regarding the stress fracture.

"I've injured just about every part of my body throughout my career but I think the foot was the turning point ... I can't offer as much as I used to on the field," Mumford said.

"I want to be able to run around with my kid in years to come.

"It has been (emotional), this morning was probably the worst ... it's a bit of a sad day for me but it's obviously something I've had to do.

"I'm grateful ... who would have thought the fat kid from Bunyip would have been able to last this long."

The respected big man, whose decision was also shaped by chronic ankle and knee problems, had a year to run on his contract.

Geelong signed Mumford as a mature-age recruit in the rookie draft at the end of the 2007 season.

The former boilermaker then had stints at Sydney and GWS. He was commonly referred to as the Giants' barometer by teammates because of the way he hunted the ball and imposed himself on contests.

GWS coach Leon Cameron was full of praise for Mumford, who will remain at the club as a ruck coach.

"Quite remarkable how he actually completed the year," Cameron said.

"He's a premiership player. He's a best-and-fairest winner.

"But his true legacy is he's a competitor, he hits the ball hard and he hits the opposition hard."

Mumford is confident Rory Lobb can step up as the side's No.1 ruck.

"He's been telling me all year he was coming for the spot, so I guess he's finally got his wish," Mumford laughed.

"I've got no doubt after I really rip into him next pre-season that he'll come out flying."

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