After three years of development, Taylor Duryea finally got his chance at AFL level in 2013 and he took the opportunity with both hands.
Drafted all the way back in 2009, Duryea made his debut in the Round 3 blockbuster against Collingwood and made the transition from VFL to AFL football seamlessly.
He played 18 games at AFL level and averaged 13.5 disposals, 4 marks and 2.5 tackles per game – an impressive start to his career.
It seemed as though as soon as Duryea was introduced to the elite level, it became apparent just how well the Club had developed the youngster, such was the seamless transition he made from the VFL to the AFL.
He never once looked out of place, not even on debut when he played in front of 80,000 against Collingwood at the MCG.
Such was his great year, that he was recognised as the Club’s best first year player on the Club’s best and fairest night, the Peter Crimmins Medal.
He never once looked out of place at senior level, not even on debut when he played in front of 80,000 against Collingwood at the MCG.
In fact, Duryea made an immediate impression with his ball use and courage to back into packs but it was mostly his ability to win one-on-one contests that was what had fans most excited.
He gathered 15 disposals on debut and backed that up with 17 touches in his second game – against Fremantle in Round 4 before being struck down by injury in Round 5.
Testament to the impressive start to his career at AFL level though, Duryea returned in Round 6, albeit as a late inclusion. But, 14 disposals in the tough game against Adelaide showed he has a lot to offer at AFL level.
He retained his spot for the Grand Final re-match against the Swans at the MCG the following week and a brilliant and courageous mark when backing into a pack at centre half back had everyone wondering what the future might hold for the 22 year old.
He didn’t miss a game until 22 but returned in Round 23 where he was a solid contributor for the final home and away match against Sydney.
Unfortunately he didn’t manage to play in a final and was unlucky to miss out on selection for the Grand Final team after Brendan Whitecross was injured.
What he did do though, was show he is a determined young player who looks set to have a long career in brown and gold because of his desire to succeed.
When he was dropped from the AFL team and was fighting for a place in the side for the finals, Duryea was one of Box Hill’s best in both the Preliminary and Grand Finals.
He had 21 disposals and took 10 marks against Werribee in the prelim and had 17 touches and took four marks in the Grand Final. His run off half back in the decider though, was where he did his best work – he had 10 handball receives and was a valuable link-up player thanks to his prolific kicking skills.
Although he did miss out on the Grand Final, Duryea will take great confidence in the experiences of 2013 and the start he made to his AFL career.
With the retirement of Brent Guerra, the Hawks look to have a ready-made replacement for the dour defender in Duryea whose kicking skills only enhance the similarities between the two players.
His first 18 games will hold him in good stead for next year as will another strong pre-season in order to hit the ground running for season 2014.
What Chris Fagan said: “‘Doc’ played 18 games and was another one in the unlucky category for the Grand Final. With Brent Guerra retiring, there is a spot there for him to make his own next year.
“He acquitted himself very well at AFL level; he looked comfortable, was good defensively and was able to get involved in our rebound play as well. We’re really excited about the future with him.”
Duryea in the news in 2013
Debut came at the right time: Duryea
Duryea settles in
Duryea’s different focus
Videos featuring Duryea in 2013
Duryea after his debut
Inside access with Jack Gunston featuring Taylor Duryea
