Taylor Duryea has confirmed that 2025 will be his final season in the AFL, bringing the curtain down on a decorated 219-game career.
The 34-year-old defender informed his Western Bulldogs teammates of his decision, ending a journey that began at Hawthorn, where he became a two-time premiership player.
Taken at pick 69 in the 2009 draft, Duryea debuted for the Hawks in 2013 and was part of the club’s back-to-back flags in 2014 and 2015. He crossed to the Bulldogs in 2019, reuniting with Luke Beveridge, and went on to play in the club’s 2021 Grand Final side.
A respected leader and fierce competitor
Duryea has been part of the Bulldogs’ leadership group since 2022, a reflection of the esteem he holds within the club. Coach Luke Beveridge praised both his character and footballing nous.
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“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’s on-field influence over the duration of his career has been underpinned by his determination and self-belief. Opposition small forwards will always remember how difficult it was to play against him.”
Reflecting on his own career, Duryea spoke of resilience and gratitude. “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,” he said. “I hope I can leave the game with an earned respect for not just my footy but for how I treated people.”
Duryea departs as a dual-premiership Hawk and a 100-game Bulldog, achievements he said will always hold a special place in his heart.