Western Bulldogs defender Taylor Duryea has decided to hang up the boots after 16 seasons in the AFL.

His career began at Hawthorn, and he was a significant cog in the club's premiership teams in 2014 and 2015, playing 118 games.

After nine seasons, the classy left footer was traded to the Bulldogs, where he added another 101 matches to his tally, which he is "proud" of.

"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.

AFL Rd 20 - Western Bulldogs v GWS
BALLARAT, AUSTRALIA - JULY 29: Taylor Duryea of the Bulldogs kicks the ball during the 2023 AFL Round 20 match between the Western Bulldogs and the GWS GIANTS at Mars Stadium on July 29, 2023 in Ballarat, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"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."

Duryea was drafted with Pick 69 in the 2009 National Draft by the Hawks, and has carved out a successful career over the past 16 seasons at the top flight.

REPORTS: Duryea set to switch to rival club
LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 02: Taylor Duryea of the Hawks and Jarman Impey of the Hawks celebrate at the final siren during the round 11 AFL match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Port Adelaide Power at University of Tasmania Stadium on June 2, 2018 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)

Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge, who spent time with Duryea at Hawthorn, said he was "fortunate" to witness the veteran's influence at club level.

"We have been fortunate to have been the beneficiaries of Taylor's on and off-field influence since he transferred over from the Hawks," said Beveridge.

"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."

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