A disappointed but grateful Mitch Wallis is weighing up his AFL future after parting ways with the Western Bulldogs.
Wallis spent 12 years at Whitten Oval, playing 162 games and becoming vice-captain in 2021.
“Playing for the red, white and blue was a childhood dream and this club has been my second home for more than a decade,” Wallis said.
Mitch Wallis has left the Bulldogs.Credit:Getty Images
“Despite the disappointment of finishing at the Bulldogs, I will weigh up what comes next for me over the coming weeks.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the support of many people at the Bulldogs and their guidance, particularly over the past 12 months, and it’s something I will always cherish.
“I’ve got so many wonderful memories and friendships that I take with me, and I will be forever grateful to run out onto Marvel Stadium in front of the amazing Bulldogs fans.”
Coach Luke Beveridge lauded Wallis’ career and his contribution to the Bulldogs.
“Mitch has been a highly respected and professional Bulldogs person from the day he arrived. He has poured his heart and soul into his football,” Beveridge said.
“He has been a committed and supportive club man and an influential leader, having experienced the honour of being vice-captain.
“Unfortunately, he has been held back with injury at times, which has hindered his continuity and ability to influence on the field.
“Mitch has forged intimate bonds with all at our club. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with him whatever comes next.”
Wallis is the son of Bulldogs great Steve and was a father-son selection at pick 22 in the 2010 draft. He led the club’s goalkicking in 2020 after making a move forward from the midfield but fell out of favour in 2021, playing just six games. In total he kicked 109 goals for the Bulldogs.
The 29-year-old’s 2022 season came to an early end when he had surgery to repair a foot issue in June, ruling him out for the rest of the campaign. He had stepped away for a week in April after his mother-in-law died following a car accident and his wife gave birth shortly after. He kicked two goals on return to the team, paying emotional tribute to his late mother-in-law, but injured his foot in the same game.
