Geelong veteran Harry Taylor has thanked Cats fans for their support in an open letter after the two-time premiership hero announced his AFL retirement.
The 34-year-old joins teammate Gary Ablett in retirement after playing 280 games over 13 seasons after being drafted as a mature-age recruit from the first round of the 2008 draft.
Taylor was twice named in the All-Australian team after Geelong's premiership success in 2009 and 2011.
His last game was the 31-point grand-final loss to Richmond last week.
"I limped into the Geelong Football Club bright eyed and determined back in 2007 and limp off 4,723 days later in 2020 proud that I have given my absolute best to our great club," Taylor said.
"The one-on-one contests, the ice baths, the heartbreaking losses and the unbelievable victories at home or far away. I have tried to prepare as well as possible for every battle.
"We both know I didn't move like the most graceful looking footballer, nor did I subscribe to the AFL player stereotype.
"I would have loved to have helped our great club win more games and more premierships but I leave having fully committed to the process and the values of our organisation. It's been one hell of a ride."
Taylor had made up his mind about his future prior to the grand final but Geelong's general manager of football Simon Lloyd confirmed the defender wanted to go out on quiet note.
"Harry continued to play exceptional football until his final game," Taylor said.
"He has demonstrated an insatiable appetite to continue to learn and has always been highly invested in the betterment of the team, club and community.
"In typical fashion, Harry wants a low-key retirement announcement and we respect his wishes."
from WWOS https://wwos.nine.com.au/afl/afl-news-geelong-veteran-harry-taylor-retires/5383b303-060d-4eab-9c22-cee79e6a6ee3
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