GWS veteran Daniel Lloyd has announced his retirement from the AFL after 96 games and eight years with the Giants.

A Rookie Draft selection out of Killarney Vale in New South Wales, Lloyd was a mature-aged recruit who would eventually develop into a reliable role player for the AFL's youngest club.

Lloyd would make his AFL debut in 2017 against Collingwood and would play another seven games in the orange and charcoal that season.

By 2019 Lloyd was a staple in the Giants' senior side, and would feature in the grand final later that year, where he recorded 15 disposals.

The 31-year-old has played 18 games this year and will play out the remainder of the 2023 season as the Giants push for a finals return.

Speaking via a club announcement, Lloyd thanked the club for taking a chance on him.

“I've known for quite some time now and Crystal and I have had many conversations about what it looks like for us going forward and how that impacts us and our family. It's the right time for us to move into our next chapter,” Lloyd said.

“I'm so grateful for what this club has given me. It's provided me with an environment to not only become a better footballer but more importantly, to become a better person, a better husband and father.

“It's given me skills and values that will no doubt help me in the future, relationships that will last a lifetime, and I think what I'm most grateful for are the memories - The ones I've created with all of you here and the ones I've been able to share with my wife, kids and family.

NARRANDERA, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 18: Daniel Lloyd of the Giants runs the ball during the 2017 JLT Community Series match between Greater Western Sydney Giants and the West Coast Eagles at Narrandera Sports Ground on February 18, 2017 in Narrandera, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

“I'll be forever grateful to the GIANTS and the people that have helped me along the way.

“My teammates – I'm going to miss you the most. Whether it's a grueling pre-season or standing in the race before a game or the feeling in the change room after a win or loss, I'm going to miss it all. The bonds and friendships I've made with you all will be what I cherish the most.

“Early in my career I figured out pretty quickly the type of player I wanted to be. It was someone my teammates could trust, a selfless teammate that would always put the team first. I didn't care if I didn't get any external credit, all that mattered was that you guys wanted me by your side.

“I've had some time to reflect, and I'd like to think when you leave a footy club, you hope that you've left some sort of mark. I hope I've been a teammate with all those qualities but also a person that added to the fabric and culture of this great club.

“Thank you from Crystal, the kids and I for welcoming us into the GIANTS family. It's been an unforgettable experience.”

GWS are scheduled to face Essendon this weekend at GIANTS Stadium before concluding their home and away campaign against Carlton in Round 24.