Crows great in tears delivering beautiful retirement message
Updated . First published at
Adelaide champion Taylor Walker has revealed he will retire at the end of the season, breaking down in tears during his press conference announcing the news.
The former Crows captain has played 316 games and kicked more than 700 career goals, making him the club’s all-time leading goal kicker.
Taylor Walker of the Crows celebrates a goal. AFL Photos via Getty Images
The 36-year-old was on the fence about his future across the season, with many believing he would go around one more time in 2027.
However, he has opted to hang up the boots and will call time whenever Adelaide’s season comes to an end.
They currently sit fifth on the ladder following their win over Richmond on Saturday.
Walker was selected with the final pick in the 2007 AFL Draft, pick 75, and went on to become a seven-time club leading goal kicker, All-Australian and club captain.
Speaking on his decision to retire, Walker became emotional while thanking his wife and kids for their support.
“As a young kid from Broken Hill, I dreamed about one day playing for the Crows and I’m so grateful to have been able to live that life,” Walker said.
“Then there’s my wife Ellie. You came into my life when I didn’t realise how much I needed you. You became my best friend, my biggest supporter, my greatest teammate and eventually my wife,” he said.
“Through it all, you’ve never stopped believing in me. Thank you for loving me through every version of myself.
“And to my beautiful kids. You are my greatest adventure. I’ve always thought the job of a parent was to teach you all the right values, but in fact you three have taught me more than you’ll ever know.”
Walker thanked the Crows’ fans for their support across the journey as well.
“I’ve shared the journey with so many great teammates, coaches and staff, as well as my family and friends, and I’m incredibly thankful for the role they’ve played in my career,” he added.
Taylor Walker becomes emotional during his farewell press conference. Fox Footy
“To our members and supporters, thank you for riding every high and low with me, and your unwavering support is one of the reasons this club is such a special place.
“I’m going to leave the game with a great deal of pride, gratitude and a lifetime of memories, not to mention an ongoing sense of belonging to the Crows community.”
Walker sits 27th on the all-time V/AFL goal kicking leaderboard, three behind Dick Lee and 14 behind Nick Riewoldt, with minimum three games remaining in his career.
The Crows great has kicked 26 goals from 15 games so far this season.
