“I will miss the thrill of the contest, and I will miss the incredible feeling of playing in front of the best fans in the world … But I leave with no regrets and just a sense of pride for everything we have achieved together.”
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Grimes was overlooked in the 2009 national draft, joining the Tigers with the second pick in the ensuing pre-season draft.
Gale said Grimes, who endured serious hamstring issues early in his career, would be remembered as one of the club’s all-time greats.
“Dylan arrived at the club via the pre-season draft and, straight away, you could tell that he was going to be a player that got everything out of himself, which 15 years later has certainly come to fruition,” Gale said.
“His importance to our team and club across a long period has been profound, and his contribution to our era of success has been outstanding. In a role that does not always receive the plaudits, Dylan exemplified, and he was respected and admired across the league as a top-line quality player.
“Dylan had a wonderful career and is one of our most decorated players, but his legacy at the club as a great teammate will be the most lasting.”
Grimes’ departure comes a day after teammate Shai Bolton said he was open to a trade to either West Coast or Fremantle, while premiership teammate Liam Baker could also be on the move home west. Jack Graham is also considering a move west, while running defender Daniel Rioli has been linked with the Suns.
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Source Agencies
