Departed Bulldogs veteran Mitch Wallis has revealed he's considering a move interstate should interest from across the country arise, stating his desire for football is still "burning".
Wallis was among four players to depart the Kennel on Monday, with Louis Butler (delisted), Charlie Parker (delisted) and Stefan Martin (retired) joining the 29-year-old in exiting the club.
A father-son addition in 2010, Wallis played 162 games in the blue, white and red before seeing his time at Whitten Oval come to a surprising end this week.
Speaking onย 3AW,ย the St Bernard's product revealed he was caught off-guard by the Dogs' call to part ways after 12 years.
"It was a bit of a surprise," Wallis said.
"I had surgery halfway through the year and there was a fair indication that things were going to continue on next year.ย I sort of made plans and preparations for that to happen.
"Obviously there was a bit of player movement at the Dogs over the trade period and I thought I'd be here next year.
"So it was a bit of a shock... but that's footy.
"But I'm a positive guy, I look forward. I've still got that burning desire to play. So after the dust settles on this we'll see what else is out there."
Seen to be a valuable and cheap recruit for any side looking to add a midfield-forward hybrid, Wallis' services will be on offer this off-season as he begins his search for a second club.
While it isn't something he's pondered just yet, Wallis said a move interstate is certainly possible given his passion to continue playing in the AFL.
"That's probably a question I haven't grappled with yet," Wallis said when asked about moving out of Victoria.
"I wanna play footy and that's the bottom line. I know my wife and kids would move heaven and earth to allow me to do that.
"I'd definitely consider it for sure. I've got enough left in the tank to make a big move, maybe interstate and provide my services somewhere else."
Wallis played five games this season before seeing his campaign end abruptly in June due to a niggling foot injury.
