WILL Minson has confirmed his time at the Western Bulldogs has come to an end but he is still undecided on whether he will play on at another club in 2017.
Minson, 31, is an unrestricted free agent and it was widely acknowledged that he would not be at the Whitten Oval next year but he confirmed he would be leaving in an emotional video at the Bulldogs' best and fairest awards on Wednesday night.
The video was recorded on the Friday prior to the AFL Grand Final.
"It's sad to say, to come to the realisation that my time at the Western Bulldogs has come to an end," Minson said in the video.
"I'm not entirely sure if that's it, if I'm done. I haven't had a chance to really think about it. I'm getting married in four weeks and at some point I'll have to make a decision as to whether I'm interested in playing on again. But at this stage I really don't know the answer to that."
Minson was called to the stage on Wednesday night and made a speech that had all the hallmarks of a retirement speech although he did not confirm he would be retiring from football.
Minson thanked his teammates, coaches, medical staff and the supporters. He also thanked his family for their support during his career.
Beveridge paid tribute to Minson during his speech.
"I want to thank Will Minson, for your contribution to our club," Beveridge said.
"You're a much-loved character and have given great service. As much as the AFL opportunities dried up you maintained a positive attitude and it was great to see you finish with a burst in the Footscray premiership side. Well done, Will."
Minson played 191 games for the Bulldogs after he was recruited from SANFL club Norwood with pick No.20 in the 2002 NAB AFL Draft. He was named as an All Australian in 2013 and finished third in the best and fairest in the same season. But he played just 12 matches in the last two seasons, and only two this year.
There are several clubs in the market for an experienced ruckman that have inquired about Minson's interest in playing next year.
.@WMinson announces tonight that his time at The Kennel has come to an end.
— Western Bulldogs (@westernbulldogs) October 5, 2016
One of the good guys. #SuttonMedal pic.twitter.com/dNfKyxdyMc