Western Bulldogs midfielder James Harmes has retired from AFL football, deciding to hang up the boots after 174 games and 12 seasons.
Harmes was currently on leave from the club, granted an extended break after his teammates returned in January.
The 30-year-old still has one year on his contract from when he joined the Bulldogs.
"I've been so fortunate to play AFL footy for over a decade at two amazing clubs,” Harmes said.
"Winning a premiership in 2021 was a lifelong dream and something I'll cherish forever, while spending the past two years at the Bulldogs has been special.
"I feel like the time is right for me to step away from the game and focus on other areas of my life. I'm forever thankful to those that have played a part in my career."
Harmes' decision to retire has opened a list vacancy at Whitten Oval, which the club can fill in the pre-season supplemental selection period. The deadline is March 2.
Harmes began his time in the top flight at Melbourne following his rookie selection ahead of the 2014 campaign. He debuted in 2015, playing eight games before locking in a role the following season.
He played 152 games in the red and blue, including the 2021 drought-breaking premiership.
He was a critical cog in Simon Goodwin's side during the golden era, but through injury and form, he fell out of favour in 2023, playing just nine games.
Seeking more opportunities and a fresh start, Harmes made the switch to Whitten Oval, and played nine and 13 matches in the past two seasons.
Harmes played in nine finals matches during his time in the AFL, proving his worth as a hard-running midfielder who could bob up for a goal.
