Experienced defender Taylor Duryea has recommitted to the Western Bulldogs for 2022.
The 30-year-old has been among the Bulldogs’ most consistent performers this season and has signed a one-year contract extension, taking him into a fourth season at the Kennel.
Duryea has played 20 of a possible 21 games at AFL level – being managed for one game – and averaged 18 disposals and 5.8 marks per game as an important member of the Bulldogs’ defensive group.
After playing just three games last year due to injury, he said he was relishing the continuity of being part of the Bulldogs’ line-up each week.
“I feel like a big part of the group now and I’m excited to be going around again next year,” Duryea said.
“This year, I feel like I’ve been pretty consistent and have been able to have an impact on and off the field, which is good.
“In my time at the club, I’ve seen how much this group has matured together.
“The core group of players have been together a while now and are the leaders of the club. It’s been great to see the growth of those guys and the younger boys coming through with their energy and adding that to the mix.
“I’m excited about being here for at least another year. This year has been really enjoyable - we’ve played some great footy and I want to keep being a part of that.”
Duryea joined the Bulldogs at the end of 2018 after featuring in two premierships and 118 AFL games at Hawthorn.
He has played 37 games across his three seasons in red, white and blue – including his 150th game earlier this year.
“Taylor has been a really important member of our side this season,” General Manager of List Management and Football Projects, Sam Power, said.
“After his first two seasons at the Bulldogs were impacted by injury, he has been able to build some continuity and put together a consistent and impactful season.
“Taylor provides strong leadership and direction – both on and off the field – and has played some influential roles on dangerous opposition forwards across the season.
“We know Taylor will continue to have a big impact on this group moving forward.”
