Collingwood have farewelled 2023 premiership hero Nathan Murphy after eight years as a player and coach.

Murphy was forced into an early retirement on medical advice at just 24, having suffered repeated head knocks resulting in concussion.

The key defender’s last game was the Magpies’ 2023 grand final victory over Brisbane, when he was subbed out in the first quarter with concussion.

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Murphy experienced blurred vision and was breathing heavily after a big collision with Lions forward Lincoln McCarthy.

It was his 10th known concussion and prompted an AFL medical panel to review the viability of his future in the sport.

Although cleared to continue, Murphy eventually announced his retirement in April of 2024 on the advice of medical professionals, given he was still experiencing recurring anxiety and panic attacks.

Murphy suffered another head knock during pre-season training in January of 2024 which, despite not resulting in concussion, also played a role in his early retirement.

He was taken off the ground and assessed by club doctors, but actually returned to the field to finish the training session.

But Murphy later admitted the incident severely impacted him mentally and contributed to his retirement.

Keen to keep him at the club in some capacity, Collingwood later hired Murphy as a development coach.

Since then, Murphy has worked closely with the Magpies’ 18 to 22-year-old defenders.

Now the 26-year-old will take up an opportunity with Gold Coast, following Scott Pendlebury to the sunshine state.

“Nathan is an outstanding person and has played a valuable role within our coaching team in recent times, working closely with our young players to support their growth and development,” Collingwood footy boss Charlie Gardiner said.

“We will miss Murph’s energy and enthusiasm around the club and we wish him, Rose and Romee all the best for the move north.”