Luke Hodge has turned his back on retirement and will continue his 305-game AFL career with the Brisbane Lions.
The Hawthorn champion announced ahead of his 300th match in July that season 2017 would be his last, but he will instead move north to play under former Hawks football manager Chris Fagan.
Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson has endorsed 33-year-old Hodge's decision to join the Lions.
"Luke has been an incredible servant of Hawthorn Football Club and we will support him and his family in the next step of their journey," Clarkson told hawthornfc.com.au.
"We respect Luke’s decision to take up this new opportunity presented by the Lions and understand the personal development opportunities it provides.
"Luke, Lauren, Cooper, Chase and Leo will always be welcome at Hawthorn and remain an integral part of our family.
"We look forward to celebrating Luke’s decorated career in the brown and gold at the Peter Crimmins Medal on Saturday night."
Hawthorn will now worth the Brisbane Lions in the upcoming NAB AFL Trade Period to facilitate a deal.
For more trade news, visit the NAB AFL Trade Hub, brought to you by Anytime Fitness.
