Delisted midfielder Will Hayes says he's known for some time his career at the Western Bulldogs was likely to come to an end, but believes he has the attributes to earn a second chance at another AFL club.
The Bulldogs announced on Friday that Hayes, along with Ben Cavarra, would not be offered a contract for 2022.
Hayes spent three years on the Dogs’ list and went on to play 11 games, however, he couldn’t break into the best 22 this year.
“I read the play from a while back to be honest, I wasn’t surprised by the decision given I was out of favour and couldn’t crack into the senior team at all this year,” Hayes told SEN Afternoons.
“So, I had a long time to process it, but at the end of the day it’s never easy because you form a lot of close connections within the playing group and the staff at the club, so to then find out you’re not coming back next year always stings a bit.”
Despite the premature axing, the 26-year-old wants to continue his AFL career to “prove (himself) right.”
“I guess there’s always motivation, not to really prove people wrong, but to prove yourself right,” Hayes said.
“To keep pushing, get the best out of yourself and not give up until it really is over is the main motivation.
“My one wood is definitely my endurance on the outside with my running, it’s something I can bring to the table at the elite level.
“I’ve got a really good work ethic and I want to get the most out of myself at any opportunity.
“You know exactly what you get looking at me, I just want an opportunity because you know I’ll take it with both hands.”
Hayes is the son of famous horse trainer David and also has the option to join brothers Ben and JD in the family training business if he doesn’t secure another AFL contract.