Premiership defender Taylor Duryea has announced his retirement after a 219-game career representing the Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn across 16 seasons of AFL.
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.
Making his debut in 2013, ‘Doc’ became a mainstay of the powerhouse Hawks line-up as they claimed back-to-back premierships in 2014 and 2015, playing as a lockdown defender against some of the best small forwards in the competition.
Duryea would cross to the Kennel at the end of the 2018 season after 118 games for Hawthorn, re-uniting with his former assistant coach Luke Beveridge at the Bulldogs.
The defender played 101 games for the red, white, and blue, becoming a vital player in the side that reached the 2021 AFL Grand Final.
Duryea has been part of the Bulldogs leadership group since 2022, underlining the esteem his character and experience are held in within the Club.
Senior Coach Luke Beveridge lauded the contribution Duryea has made throughout his time at the Club.
“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.
“We will miss Doc as a leader and an outstanding character at our football club, 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.
“I’m thankful to both Hawthorn and Western Bulldogs for believing in me. I hope I’ve been able to positively impact both clubs who placed faith and trust in me.
“I’m extremely proud to be a 100-game player at two clubs, that will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
