Western Bulldogs defender Lin Jong has announced his retirement from the game.
The 28-year-old will hang up the boots after 65 games and 10 years in the AFL with the Bulldogs.
Jong was recruited to Whitten Oval as a rookie ahead of the 2012 season, making his debut in his first year with the club and was eventually upgraded to the senior list in 2014.
Ongoing injuries halted the promising backman's development, yet the Oakleigh Chargers product still managed to become a key name at the kennel across his decade with the Bulldogs.
Jong was a two-time premiership player with Footscray, featuring in the 2014 and 2016 VFL flags.
Speaking via the club website, Jong expressed his pride in being able to represent the red, white and blue.
โIโve done everything I can to try to get back out there this year, but unfortunately timeโs run out on me being able to do that and Iโm comfortable that itโs the right time to hang up the boots,โ Jong said.
โFor the past 10 years, Iโve been fortunate to play football at the highest level for the Western Bulldogs.
โIโve come a long way as a person and a footballer in that time and Iโm really proud of everything Iโve achieved.
โThere have been some injury setbacks, but I wouldnโt have my journey any other way.
โIโm grateful to everyone who has supported me across the years โ all my teammates and coaches, the medical staff, trainers and our Bulldogs fans. And to my family and close friends who have been with me every step of the journey.
โIโm looking forward to seeing what the rest of the season holds for us and am excited about stepping into the next chapter of my life.โ
