Charlie Morris had never seen his Dad cry – before today.

The emotion around the retirement of Dale Morris has been felt by the Western Bulldogs community.

And even the calm, collected 253-game veteran felt the emotion today, when informing his teammates of his decision to call time on his decorated career.

“My youngest Charlie said to me this morning, ‘Dad, I’ve never seen you cry’,” Morris said.

“Well he’s seen me now.

“It’s quite emotional.

“Fifteen years at this great football club, it’s hard to say goodbye.

“Every footballer unfortunately has to go through it. You can prepare as much as you want, but nothing prepares you for this moment.”

The 36-year-old had fought back from ACL injuries during his past two seasons, to return to football at the highest level.

But a third ACL injury, on his return against Fremantle this year, led the veteran defender to make the tough decision.

“There’s definite sadness there that you’re not going to play with (your teammates) next year,” Morris said.

“You want to play forever, you want to run around, it’s the best job in the world.

“It’s been my dream as a kid, and now that dream is done.” 

While his playing days as a Bulldog are done, there may be a second life for Morris as a Bulldog, with senior coach Luke Beveridge revealing there are discussions around a potential coaching role moving forward.