After 14 seasons with West Coast, 32-year-old veteran Andrew Gaff will hang up the boots at the end of 2024, announcing a farewell match at home to cap off his career.
Gaff, a stalwart of the Eagles' midfield for over a decade, shared the news with his teammates on Tuesday morning.
The dual All-Australian and 2015 John Worsfold Medalist will bid farewell to the game after a distinguished 14-season career, during which he amassed 278 senior matches.
Congratulations on a brilliant career, Gaffy! ๐๐
Our wonder wingman will be farewelled after 280 games for the football club.
Read: https://t.co/JoBvy8y8mt pic.twitter.com/1dKoYBwERT
— West Coast Eagles (@WestCoastEagles) August 7, 2024
Gaff's journey with the Eagles began in 2010 when he was drafted with the fourth pick, and he quickly became a cornerstone of the team, renowned for his relentless work rate and exceptional ball-winning ability.
The wingman had shared a desire to continue his career earlier this season, whether that be with West Coast or another club, but being out of favour at the Eagles, has since shifted his outlook.
Reflecting on his decision, Gaff acknowledged the physical toll of the game, with a degenerative ankle injury limiting him to just three senior games in 2024. "It's been an incredible journey," Gaff said.
"I am grateful for every moment I've had with this club, the fans, and my teammates. The support I've received has been overwhelming, and I'll cherish these memories forever."
Gaff holds the record for the most disposals in the club's history, with nearly 26 per game. Unfortunately his on-field efforts were not rewarded with premiership success in 2018 when West Coast famously overcame Collingwood on Grand Final Day, as a major suspension earlier in the season tarnished his chance.
West Coast intends for Gaff to play a farewell game against Carlton at Optus Stadium in Round 23, allowing fans to celebrate his illustrious career. This final match will mark his 280th game for the Eagles, placing him fourth on the club's all-time games played list.
"Andrew has been an amazing contributor to our club for a decade and a half and we will take the opportunity to appropriately acknowledge him in the next two weeks," General Manager Football Gavin Bell said.
"It will be sad to see one of our great players end his career, but Andrew leaves a lasting legacy. He is highly respected across the football club, not just within the playing group and the football department.
"Importantly our members and fans on both the east coast and in Perth will get the opportunity to farewell him in the next two weeks. There will be a large contingent of Melbourne-based members and supporters in Hobart and we're hoping for close to a full house for our last home against Carlton."
Gaff's announcement follows the recent retirements of AFL greats Dustin Martin and Tom Hawkins, marking the end of an era of greats for the code.
