McInerney calls time after fairytale Premiership

The Brisbane Lions confirm premiership ruckman Oscar McInerney has announced his retirement after 165 games.

McInerney, selected with Pick 37 in the 2016 rookie draft, has called time on his career just a week after helping the Club claim back-to-back premierships.

The 31-year-old had to work hard for his AFL dream to come true, playing for Montrose in Melbourne’s Eastern Football League then the Casey Demons in the VFL.

From there he not only became one of the competition’s leading ruckmen, but a cult figure at the Lions and throughout the AFL.

Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly said McInerney’s departure was one of mixed emotions.

“While we are sad to see Oscar retire, we could not be happier to see him do so as a premiership player because it’s what he thoroughly deserves,” Daly said.

“Despite missing out on playing in last year’s premiership due to injury – he still gave 100 per cent to the team off the field and was the happiest person to see his teammates win it,

“Big O is one of the most loved and respected people and players to have played for the Brisbane Lions are and our football club is a better place for having had him part of it.

“We wish Oscar, his wife Rachel and their families all the best for the future and they will always hold a special place at the Brisbane Lions.”

After playing the opening eight rounds of the 2025 season, a back injury and general soreness would see the 205-centermetre ruckman managed until returning in Round 18.

McInerney would again be rested before being selected at AFL level for the finals which saw him finish with a premiership medal around his neck.

The back injury had made it difficult for McInerney to perform at the optimum level each week that he prided himself on, ultimately seeing him make the decision to retire.

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