iMELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 30: Mitch Wallis of the Bulldogs (right) congratulates Tom Liberatore of the Bulldogs on a goal during the 2017 AFL round 19 match between the Western Bulldogs and the Essendon Bombers at Etihad Stadium on July 30, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

The Western Bulldogs have bid farewell to club favourite Mitch Wallis, closing the book on the 29-year-old's 12-year tenure at the Whitten Oval.

Having grown up supporting the Dogs, Wallis followed in his father Stephen's footsteps, making his way to the Kennel with the 22nd selection of the 2010 National Draft.

Although the local product would fall short of his father's ascent to the role of club captaincy, the midfielder-turned-forward leaves a legacy of sacrifice, determination and leadership on Barkly Street.

Despite acting as a regular fixture for the Pups since making his debut in 2011, Wallis would miss out on a place in the Dogs' drought-breaking premiership team in 2016, having suffered a horrific double break to his leg earlier in the year.

Ever the clubman, Wallis moved out of the engine room to allow for those beneath him to fledge clearly, going on to flourish as a forward option.

Across the course of the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, Wallis slotted 25 majors, earning the mantel as the Dogs' leading goalscorer.

While only able to add a further 11 AFL appearances across the course of the 2021 and 2022 seasons, Wallis departs the Kennel as a much beloved figure.

Within a prepared statement posted by the Bulldogs on Monday morning, the son-of-a-gun claimed it had been a dream come true to carry on family traditions in Melbourne's West.

“I've just got so much gratitude towards the Western Bulldogs Football Club,” Wallis said.

“Playing for the red, white and blue was a childhood dream and this club has been my second home for more than a decade."

While a return to the Whitten Oval ahead of the 2023 season was off the cards, Wallis contended that a second chapter at the level may well eventuate.

“Despite the disappointment of finishing at the Bulldogs, I will weigh up what comes next for me over the coming weeks," he added.

“I wouldn't be the person I am today without the support of many people at the Bulldogs and their guidance, particularly over the past 12 months, and it's something I will always cherish.

“I've got so many wonderful memories and friendships that I take with me, and I will be forever grateful to run out onto Marvel Stadium in front of the amazing Bulldogs fans.”

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 25: Mitch Wallis of the Bulldogs (right) thanks fans with Lachie Hunter of the Bulldogs during the 2018 AFL round 23 match between the Richmond Tigers and the Western Bulldogs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on August 25, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Having been bestowed the vice-captaincy under his watch, Wallis earned plaudits from head coach Luke Beveridge, with the steward stressing that a relationship between player and club would last for a lifetime.

“Mitch has been a highly respected and professional Bulldogs person from the day he arrived.  He has poured his heart and soul into his football,” Beveridge said.

“He has been a committed and supportive club man and an influential leader, having experienced the honour of being vice-captain.

“Unfortunately, he has been held back with injury at times, which has hindered his continuity and ability to influence on the field.

“Mitch has forged intimate bonds with all at our Club. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with him whatever comes next.

“I would like to thank Mitch personally for being a great support for everyone at the Club, and we wish him, Emily, Charlotte and William all the best for the future.”

Wallis made 162 appearances in a red, white and blue guernsey since debuting in Round 5 of the 2011 season.