LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 29: Marcus Bontempelli and his Bulldogs team mates celebrate winning the AFL First Elimination Final match between Western Bulldogs and Essendon Bombers at University of Tasmania Stadium on August 29, 2021 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/AFL Photos)
Delisted Bulldog keen to join second club and continue AFL career
Departed Western Bulldogs premiership player Toby McLean still wants to keep this AFL career alive after not being offered a contract in 2024.
The 27-year-old played 102 AFL games but only managed to play six in 2023. He was part of the Bulldogs’ 2016 Premiership in only his second season.
Speaking to SEN’s Dwayne’s World on Monday, McLean talked about his career at the Bulldogs and what life might look like away from the AFL or at another club.
“I wasn’t overly surprised,” said McLean on being delisted at the end of the season. “On to bigger and better things.
Bulldogs’ list manager Sam Power said Toby “had been a heart and soul player for the Western Bulldogs over a long period and will always be remembered for playing a role in the 2016 Premiership victory” following his departure.
“A very popular team man, Toby went out of his way to help all his teammates and would play selfless roles for the team on the field,” Power added.
“Given the outcomes of the trade period to date and the future direction of the list, we’ve decided to make this further change now.
“We wish Toby all the best with his future endeavours and he’ll always be welcome back at VU Whitten Oval.”
McLean faced significant adversity during his time at the Bulldogs, sustaining two ACL injuries over three seasons. He showed resilience to be able to get back for the 2022 elimination final.
“It was a difficult time for me…. it took both a mental and physical toll on me,” he said.
“I had Josh Bruce alongside me during my second ACL, so we could complain and moan together through our rehab times.”
When asked about his future, McLean said he is still eager to continue his AFL career and remain playing senior footy.
“I loved to continue my AFL career, I think I still got what it takes to stay at AFL level,” said McLean.
McLean added that he hasn’t had any conversations with AFL clubs yet but is not giving up on his football career.
