Tom Williams’ AFL career had its challenges, but every opportunity to run out with his teammates was something he cherished.

That was the message the former custodian of the number 12 Guernsey conveyed to the playing group on Friday morning, when he returned to the Kennel’s inner-sanctum to officially handover the #12 to debutant Zaine Cordy.

With a career spanning 10 years, Williams reflected on what it meant for him every time he got the chance to pull on the red, white and blue hoops.

VIDEO: Watch Tom Williams relect on his playing career with Bulldogs skipper Bob Murphy on BulldogsTV.

“When I thought about the jersey and what it meant to me, I thought I was in a unique position to say exactly what it should mean to all of you,” Williams said.

“To me every time I wore (the jumper) it was an achievement.”

“Throughout your whole careers you should always know that every time you put (the jersey on), and get honoured with a jersey and represent everything, that everyone in this organization is about…it is an honour and you should play like you have nothing to lose.”

Williams also paid tribute to Cordy ahead of his first senior game, having watched some of his junior career and early VFL games for Footscray.

“I know you’re going to have a great career… I think you’ll fit in perfectly with this team,” Williams said.

“The way you play, the reckless abandon with which you play.

“You play with no fear which is something to behold.”