During his 202 games at the Western Bulldogs, R`yan Griffen built a reputation as one of the AFL's very best midfielders.
Now he is a GIANT.
After being drafted at pick 3 in 2004, Griffen wasted no time in having an impact on the competition and was named as a Rising Star nominee in his first season.
He’s been a regular in Mike Sheahan’s Top 50 over the past five years and the official AFL ratings system has him at number five.
Before Griffen departed Whitten Oval, Bulldogs President Peter Gordon acknowledged his standing in the game.
“He's just played his 200th game, captain of the club, All-Australian, one of the most credentialed guys going around," he said.
"There wouldn't be a player, except maybe Gary Ablett, that's changed clubs in the last couple of years that's had the cachet and the value that Ryan Griffen has got.”
Former teammate Bob Murphy reflected on Griffen’s ability in his column for the Age last year, describing the midfielder in glowing terms.
"Lately, Ryan Griffen has transported me somewhere else, not with a high mark or a freakish goal, but the fact that he tries so hard.
"Griff's efforts at the moment are above and beyond the norm in a ruthless environment. He's not as big as Matty Primus, but his presence just keeps growing.
"Watching someone try so bloody hard from a few yards away holds up a mirror to me and my teammates. If he's doing that, maybe I could try a bit harder myself. It's not a bad place to start.”
The South Australian’s move to the GIANTS will see him reunited with a number of former Bulldogs, with co-captain Callan Ward, veteran Dylan Addison and development coach Sam Reid all former team mates of Griffen.
Head Coach Leon Cameron also has a strong relationship with Griffen from his time as an Assistant Coach at the Bulldogs under Rodney Eade.
Griffen will join an exciting group of midfielders at the GIANTS including Ward, Tom Scully, Adam Treloar, Dylan Shiel, Lachie Whitfield, Stephen Coniglio, Toby Greene and Josh Kelly.
Ryan Griffen
Games: 203
All Australian: 2013
Best and Fairest: 2010 & 2013
Bulldogs Captain: 2014
