Andrew Gaff, a veteran Eagle with 277 games, believes there’s still plenty of football left in his AFL career, despite speculation in recent years that he may have been surpassed by the game.
Andrew Gaff, who turns 32 in less than two weeks and is out of contract in 2024, believes he still has the capability to secure another contract, ideally with the West Coast Eagles, but he is open to other possibilities.
“I feel like I’ve still got some really good footy ahead,” Gaff told AAP. “I’m really confident in my body probably for the first time in a little while.”
Drafted with pick four in the 2010 National Draft, Gaff acknowledges he’s well beyond his youthful days of thriving physically throughout the season, but he remains confident in handling the demands of football in his later years.
“As an older guy, you’ve obviously got to watch yourself a bit during the week and you do have a few more niggles than your Campbell Chessers or your Reuben Ginbeys,” he added. “I remember when I was 19, 20, and you just feel awesome every single week, every single training session, every single game. It’s not always like that as a guy that’s about to turn 32. But my body feels really good.”
While Gaff may not possess the speed of some elite wingers in the competition, he is focused on showcasing his skills and adapting his game to the modern style.
“I’ve always had strong belief in myself and it’s why I feel like I’ve been a decent player for a while now,” Gaff said. “You’ve got to keep adapting and changing. There’s no secret about that. I’ve had a few focuses for the past eight to 10 weeks and I felt I’ve implemented them reasonably well.”
Despite criticisms about his speed in the modern game, Gaff had a prolific prime, averaging more than 29 disposals over a five-year stretch from 2015 to 2019. His standout season came in 2018, averaging nearly 31 disposals and kicking 12 goals from 19 games, earning his second All-Australian nod.
His career was marred by a suspension that cost him eight weeks and a chance at West Coast’s premiership in 2018 after an incident with Docker Andrew Brayshaw.
Looking forward, Gaff remains determined to secure a new contract, whether to add experience to a young team on the rise or to contribute his ball use and forward 50 connection to a premiership contender.
“I’m happy with the work I’ve done and the strength I’ve shown,” Gaff said.
