Australian Footballer Liam Jones Retires Amid Vaccine Mandate

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Australian footballer Liam Jones has retired from the Australian Football League before the deadline for player vaccine requirements comes into effect.

A statement from Jones’ club, the Carlton Blues, says, “CARLTON defender Liam Jones has today made the decision to announce his retirement from AFL football.”

Liam Jones has today made the decision to announce his retirement.

We wish him all the best and thank him for his time at the Club.

The Club will now work closely with the AFL regarding options available to replace Jones’ spot on the list for the 2022 season.

— Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) November 14, 2021

In the statement, Jones does not give a reason for his departure, instead asking for privacy and thanking people for their support.

“I wish to announce my retirement from AFL football effective immediately. I want to take this opportunity to thank all who have supported me throughout my journey, both personally and professionally. I love the game and I’ll miss my teammates.”

“I hope that people respect my decision and privacy – neither myself or my management team will be making any further comment on the matter.”

Carlton Head of Football Brad Lloyd reiterated Jones’ statement, saying, “Liam confirmed with us today that he has made the decision to retire, and his wish for the specific reasons of that decision to be kept private – as a club, we will be respecting that.”

This announcement comes as the deadline for players to be vaccinated against COVID-19 looms.

The AFL’s requirement states, “The First Stage is already in effect in Victoria by virtue of the Government’s Authorised Worker Vaccination Mandate and requires Players and Football Program Staff of Victorian Clubs to be vaccinated (first dose 22 October 2021 and fully vaccinated 26 November 2021) prior to being able to attend their Clubs to start or continue their pre-seasons.”

Jones isn’t the first AFL player to have personal issues while the AFL implements its mandatory vaccination policy. Melbourne Demons 2021 premiership-winning forward Tom McDonald previously spoke out against the forced vaccination policy. “I’m vaccinated and most players would have been, but… it’s ethically wrong to force people to [have] a medical procedure,” he told Channel Nine.

AFL Women’s dual premiership winner Deni Varnhagen, who is also a registered ICU nurse, refused to take the vaccine and has been placed on the Adelaide Crows’ inactive list.