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Two-club defender makes call on playing future

“He is the epitome of hard work and determination, a reliable defender who gave his all each time he ran onto the field.”

Published by
Aidan Cellini

Western Bulldogs defender Alex Keath has called time on his eight-season AFL career, informing the club as it finalises its list ahead of the October 31 deadline.

Keath began his career at Adelaide after switching from cricket in 2015 to be signed as a Category B Rookie.

The 32-year-old played 30 games for the Crows across three seasons before making the jump to the Kennel in the 2019 trade period.

Keath added another 79 games to his tally and featured in the 2021 AFL Grand Final against Melbourne, finishing on 109 matches.

Known as a handy defender and proficient on both sides of his body, the former Shepparton Bears product is grateful for the opportunity he had to play at the elite level.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 13: (L-R) Ryan Gardner, Alex Keath and Stefan Martin of the Bulldogs in action during the Western Bulldogs training session at Optus Stadium on September 13, 2021 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Western Bulldogs Football Club," Keath said.

"The players, coaches, support staff and volunteers have been a pleasure to work with.

"To our fans - it's been a privilege to represent the Bulldogs faithful over the journey. The memories will last a lifetime, thank you."

Sam Power, GM of List Management and Recruiting at the Bulldogs, said Keath should take pride in everything he has achieved throughout his playing career.

"Alex should be extremely proud of the contributions he made to both Adelaide and Western Bulldogs football clubs," Power said.

"He is the epitome of hard work and determination, a reliable defender who gave his all each time he ran onto the field. He's also a much-loved and highly respected individual, not just by his teammates but also by staff across all sections of our Club.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 21: Alex Keath of the Crows walks from the field after the round 18 AFL match between the Adelaide Crows and the Geelong Cats at Adelaide Oval on July 21, 2017 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Kalisz/Getty Images)

"We thank Alex for everything he gave to the Club in his time in red, white and blue and wish him, Laura, Oliver and Ella all the best for the next stage of their lives."

Joining Keath out the door is delisted trio Dominic Bedendo, Charlie Clarke and Kelsey Rypstra.

Premiership duo Jack Macrae (St Kilda) and Caleb Daniel (North Melbourne) joined new clubs during the trade period, as did Bailey Smith (Geelong).

Published by
Aidan Cellini