"This has been an incredibly difficult decision for me to make as football has been such a big part of my life," Scully said.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
"I have been thinking for a long period of time now as to my future in the game and after much consideration, I have decided now is the best time for me to step away and pursue other interests.<\/p>\n
"After 11 seasons in the AFL I understand the demands that this game requires of you, and after much thought I know in my heart I have lost the passion and commitment that is required of me to continue to compete at AFL level.\u00a0<\/p>\n
"I am so grateful for all the opportunities and experiences that football has given me and I will take away some lifelong memories and friendships."<\/p>\n
Drafted with the top pick by Melbourne, Scully also played with the Giants after being lured as a marquee signing to the GWS expansion club.<\/p>\n
He played 35 games over two seasons after being traded to the Hawthorn and ends his AFL career on 189 games. He was entering the final season of a three-year deal with the Hawks.<\/p>\n
Hawthorn's interim head of football Rob McCartney said: "Tom has given his heart and soul to our game for 11 years and he is now ready to switch focus to the next chapter of his life.<\/p>\n
"Tom's work ethic and commitment to improving has endeared him to everyone at our club and these qualities will certainly hold him in good stead in life outside of the game.<\/p>\n
"As a No.1 draft pick and three-club player, Tom has been an outstanding contributor to the game of AFL and should walk away incredibly proud of the resilience and character he has showed over the years.\u00a0<\/p>\n
"We wish him all the best for whatever lies ahead and thank him for this contribution to the brown and gold."<\/p>\n
Melbourne's 2008 No.1 draft pick, Jack Watts, last year also retired effective immediately from footy<\/a> at age 29, unable to recover from a leg injury. He played 174 AFL games, ending with a difficult 21-match stint at Port Adelaide.<\/p>\n For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0clicking here!<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"