The 2021 season was full of impressive goals, marks and memorable wins, but some feel-good stories emerged too as the league and the country adjusted to a new look AFL season.
You can check out our top ten highlights of the season, while we take a look at some of the more heartwarming moments that made up 2021.
4. Shaun Burgoyne's 400th game
Only four players had reached the 400 game milestone prior to 2021, but now Shaun Burgoyne can proudly add his name to that list.
Fittingly, Burgoyne reached the milestone in Round 16 against his old team, Port Adelaide. The Power spoiled the occasion, winning by 34 points, but the game was always about much more than the result.
"I'm getting emotional! I haven't been emotional all week!" ๐ฅฐ
From being given a broomstick on day one to becoming one of the great wizards of our game's history, listen as Shaun Burgoyne confirms to teammates this weekend's game will be his last. โจ pic.twitter.com/YvaOmyQjXy
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) August 19, 2021
The 39-year-old picked up 11 disposals in the loss and was chaired off by Liam Shiels and former teammate Travis Boak. Hanging up the boots after Round 23, Burgoyne ended his career on a high note after doing what only four other players had done before him.
