Western Bulldogs captain Robert Murphy has announced that 2017 will be his last at a press conference on Tuesday morning.
Murphy will play out the rest of the season in the hope he can lead his Dogs to another finals appearance.
โIt has been an incredible experience being part of the Western Bulldogs Football Club for almost two decades, but now is the right time to finish my career,โ Murphy told westernbulldogs.com.au.
โIโve had the privilege of playing alongside some of the greats of this club and under some inspiring coaches, and each person has helped shape me as a player and person.
โIโm thankful for all the support Iโve received along the way, from my team-mates, coaches and club staff, my family and friends, and from the amazing Bulldogsโ members and fans.
โIt has been an honour to captain the club for the last three seasons, and I will leave the game satisfied that I gave everything I possibly could.โ
The 310-game veteran made his debut for the Dogs against Carlton in round 19, 2000, after he was selected with the 13th overall pick in the 1999 National Draft.
An All-Australian in 2011 and 2015 (AA captain), Murphy is in his third season as captain of the club, and was a key member of their 2016 premiership triumph.
Despite playing just three games last season after suffering a serious knee injury in round three, Murphy was with the Dogs every step of the way on their road to success, and was even handed a premiership medal by coach Luke Beveridge on stage at the grand final in a touching moment.
โBob is a once in a generation type character in what he has achieved both on and off the field,โ Beveridge told the club's website.
โHe has been one of the most consistent performers for the Club in the last 18 seasons, because on top of his natural ability he has driven himself to continually improve and get the best out of himself.
โBut itโs the impact heโs had off the field, in terms of setting standards for his team-mates, leading by example and driving the right culture, which is difficult for those outside the club to fully appreciate.
โThe Bulldogs have been lucky to have Bob Murphy, and he leaves an incredibly strong legacy.โ
Across his 18-year career, Murphy has averaged 17.9 disposals, 5.4 marks, 3.1 inside 50s and 2.6 rebound 50s per game.
