After 219 AFL games, former Corowa resident and Wahgunyah footballer Taylor ‘Doc’ Duryea announced his retirement last week.

The 34-year-old played 118 games with Hawthorn, including two premierships, before 101 games with the Western Bulldogs, over a total of 16 seasons.

The defender became a vital player in the side that reached the 2021 AFL Grand Final and has been part of the Bulldogs leadership group since 2022, underlining the esteem his character and experience are held within the club.

Senior Bulldogs’ coach Luke Beveridge praised Duryea’s contribution. “We have been fortunate to have been the beneficiaries of Taylor’s on and off-field influence since he transferred over from the Hawks,” Beveridge said.

“ ‘Doc’ has had a very successful career as a two-time Hawthorn premiership player and Bulldogs grand finalist.

“Doc’s on-field influence over the duration of his career has been underpinned by his determination and self-belief.

“His aerial courage and raking left foot have been great weapons that have always put the opposition on edge. Opposition small forwards will always remember how difficult it was to play against him.”

Beveridge said the Western Bulldogs will miss Duryea as a leader and an outstanding character at the football club, adding: “but we will always remember his contribution and ensure he is always welcome as a treasured past player”.

Reflecting on his career, Duryea said he was extremely grateful for the time he had spent at both clubs.

“I am obviously proud of the team success I’ve been able to experience at both AFL and VFL level, but I think it’s enduring adversity and overcoming challenges that have made my career so fulfilling,” Duryea said.

“Dealing with injury and form, signing eight one-year contracts or the change of clubs… I’ve always remained consistent in my approach to both the game and the people around me.

“I hope I can leave the game with an earned respect for not just my footy but for how I treated people. I have formed so many wonderful relationships that I’ll forever be grateful for.”

Duryea was drafted at Pick 69 in the 2009 National Draft, landing at the Hawks as a small forward from Caufield Grammar and Murray Bushrangers.

He crossed to the kennel at the end of the 2018 season, re-uniting with his former assistant coach Luke Beveridge at the Bulldogs.

Wahgunyah Football Netball Club stalwart Wes Canny couldn’t speak highly enough of the retiring footballer. “If ever a kid was going to make it at AFL it was going to be him because of his desire and love for the sport,” Canny said.

“Taylor played in two premierships. It wasn’t by luck, but natural talent, and he is one of the nicest fellows you’d ever want to meet. I can see him being a coach for sure.”

Duryea expressed his thanks to both Hawthorn and Western Bulldogs for believing in him. “I hope I’ve been able to positively impact both clubs that placed faith and trust in me,” the Wahgunyah Wonder said.

“I’m extremely proud to be a 100-game player at two clubs, that will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

In a big story with The Free Press on the Wahgunyah wizard last year on his 200th game, Duryea described Hawthorn’s Buddy Franklin and Bulldogs’ captain Marcus Bontempelli as “generational players”.

Taylor Duryea was a brilliant footballer. He leaves the game at the highest standard as a highly respected player and person.

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Tuesday, 21st February 2023

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