Collingwood midfielder Dayne Beams has decided to take an indefinite break from AFL football.

Discussions in recent weeks between Beams, his family, Collingwood and the medical professionals helping him to overcome his mental and physical health issues led to the 29 year-old’s call.

“Trying to improve my quality of life and meet the demands of playing and training for football at the elite level continues to be a struggle,” Beams said. 

“My health and football have come to feel like competing priorities, which is not a position that is helping or enabling me to meet my responsibilities.

“I have been trying to meet this challenge for a number of years but, with a series of debilitating recent injuries and my mental health a work in progress, I have reached a point where I know that stepping away from football is necessary.

“I want to thank all who have supported me and my family. I look forward to a brighter future.”

Collingwood chief executive, Mark Anderson, lauded Beams for the strength in his decision.

“Dayne has made a difficult and brave call that we support completely,” Anderson said.

“Collingwood will continue to support and assist Dayne, his wife Kelly and their children as Dayne works towards a return to full health.”

Dayne and his family have asked that their privacy now be respected. As such, Collingwood will not be making further comment.