West Coast midfielder departs Eagles amid concussion battle

A sad outcome for a young Eagle.

West Coast midfielder Luke Edwards has decided to step away from football amid a battle with ongoing concussion symptoms, with the 22-year-old leaving the Eagles with immediate effect.

Edwards played 12 games in the royal blue and gold this year, his last coming in Round 20 against Fremantle when he sustained his third concussion.

The young onballer played a total of 37 games for West Coast, who he joined via the 2020 AFL Draft as the 52nd overall pick.

“I am stepping away from the game currently due to concussion reasons to allow me the time to return to full health,” Edwards said in a club statement.

“With the support of my family and the club, I will take all steps required to prepare myself for the next steps in my life.”

West Coast will place their support behind the South Australian, who has been described as “a popular member of the squad”.

“Luke has made the difficult decision to step away from the AFL to concentrate on his physical and mental wellbeing,” General Manager of Football Gavin Bell said.

“The club will continue to give full support to Luke and would like to thank him for his efforts over the last four years.

“He has been a popular member of the squad in his time at the club and we wish him well for the next chapter of his life’s journey.”

Edwards’ departure sees the Eagles’ list of exiting players grow to 11, with Jordyn Baker (delisted), Thomas Barrass (Hawthorn Hawks), Coby Burgiel (delisted), Jai Culley (delisted), Jack Darling (North Melbourne Kangaroos), Andrew Gaff (retired), Jamaine Jones (delisted), Josh Rotham (delisted), Zane Trew (delisted) and Alex Witherden (delisted) also leaving the club this year.