Tom Liberatore: The Bulldog of the West Coast

There's a saying in footy: "Hard men make the good times better and the bad times more bearable." Tom Liberatore embodies this adage like few others. A bull of a man with a heart the size of Melbourne, 'Libba' has spent his illustrious career defying the odds and proving the doubters wrong. And this, my friends, is his story.
Growing up in the rough-and-tumble metropolis of Melton, young Tom developed a love for the game that would become his sanctuary. It was on the unforgiving footy ovals of Melbourne's outer suburbs that he honed his craft, earning a reputation as a fearless tackler and a relentless competitor.
In 2009, the Western Bulldogs took a punt on the undersized, bullheaded kid from the western suburbs. Little did they know that they were about to unleash a force of nature upon the AFL. Libba's debut season was a baptism by fire. Facing off against some of the biggest and most experienced players in the league, he quickly earned the nickname "The Bulldog" for his tenacity and uncompromising style.
But it was the following year that would truly cement his status as a footy legend. In the 2010 Grand Final, against all odds, the Bulldogs faced off against the mighty Collingwood Magpies. Libba, playing with the heart of a lion, led his team to an unlikely victory, silencing the doubters and etching his name into the AFL history books.
The years that followed were a rollercoaster of emotions for Libba and the Bulldogs. They soared to dizzying heights, reaching the Grand Final again in 2016, only to be heartbreakingly defeated by the Sydney Swans. But through it all, Libba remained the unyielding heart and soul of the team.
In 2022, after 14 seasons and 170 games in the red, white, and blue, Tom Liberatore decided to call time on his remarkable career. It was a bittersweet moment for Bulldogs fans, who had witnessed firsthand the sacrifices and triumphs of one of their greatest players.
But while Libba's on-field exploits will undoubtedly be remembered, it is his off-field character that truly sets him apart. A man of unwavering integrity and passion, Libba has always put the team first, mentoring younger players and being a constant source of support for his teammates.
As Tom Liberatore embarks on the next chapter of his life, he leaves behind a legacy that will long be remembered by Bulldogs fans and AFL enthusiasts alike. He is more than just a footy player. He is a symbol of resilience, determination, and the indomitable spirit that makes this game so great.
So, here's to you, Tom Liberatore. The Bulldog. The champion. The Western Bulldogs legend. Thank you for the memories, mate.