West Coast Eagles veteran Andrew Gaff has announced his retirement from the AFL, bringing an end to a distinguished 14-season career. Gaff, known for his consistency and skill, will play two more games to reach the significant milestone of 300 career games, including pre-season and representative matches, which qualifies him for AFL life membership.
Drafted with pick No. 4 in the 2010 draft, Gaff quickly established himself as a key player for the Eagles. Over his career, he earned two All-Australian selections (2015 and 2018), was named the club champion in 2015, and became the Eagles’ all-time leading disposal winner with 7,158 disposals. Despite these accolades, his career was marred by a notable incident in 2018 when he was suspended for an eight-week period after an on-field altercation with Fremantle’s Andrew Brayshaw.
Gaff’s announcement follows a challenging season where he managed to play only three games due to a degenerative ankle injury that has plagued him over the past two years. Despite these struggles, Gaff has remained a respected figure within the club, offering mentorship to younger players and contributing significantly at the WAFL level.
The West Coast Eagles have planned a fitting farewell for Gaff, allowing him to play in the final two games of the season. He will face North Melbourne in Hobart and then bid farewell to home fans at Optus Stadium in round 23 against Carlton. This farewell tour will not only allow fans to celebrate his career but also provide Gaff the opportunity to exit the game on his terms.
Reflecting on his career, Gaff expressed mixed emotions. “Andrew has been an amazing contributor to our club for a decade and a half, and we will take the opportunity to appropriately acknowledge him in the next two weeks,” said Eagles football boss Gavin Bell. “It will be sad to see one of our great players end his career, but Andrew leaves a lasting legacy. He is highly respected across the football club, not just within the playing group and the football department”.
Gaff’s impact on the field was substantial. Known for his endurance and ball-winning ability, he was a pivotal part of West Coast’s midfield for many years. His career highlights include numerous best-and-fairest awards, leading the club in disposals for multiple seasons, and his critical role in helping the Eagles reach the 2015 and 2018 Grand Finals, although he was unable to play in the latter due to his suspension.
As the curtain falls on his career, Gaff’s legacy will be remembered not just for his on-field prowess but also for his resilience and leadership. His journey with the West Coast Eagles serves as an inspiration to many young players who look up to him as a role model of dedication and professionalism.
In the words of his supporters and teammates, Andrew Gaff’s retirement marks the end of an era for the West Coast Eagles, but his influence on the club will be felt for many years to come. Here’s to a remarkable career and a fitting farewell to one of the club’s true champions.
