The Fremantle Dockers on Monday confirmed a further change to the club’s playing list.
Michael Barlow has been advised that his contract would not be extended into 2017.
Barlow, a fan favourite who played 126 games for Fremantle in seven seasons, came to the club via the 2009 Rookie Draft.
General manager of football operations Chris Bond thanked Barlow for his contribution to the club and praised him for his resilience.
“It’s always a pretty special achievement for a player to come to a club via the rookie list and play 100-plus games,” Bond said.
“Michael achieved that and more. He inspired his team mates with his resilience and determination to get back to playing as soon as possible after recovering from a setback or injury.
“Michael’s upbeat nature and the way he went about his footy ensured his strong standing in the playing group, and also guaranteed his popularity with our members and supporters.
“We thank Michael for his commitment and contribution to the club and wish him all the best for the future.”
Secured via the 2009 Rookie Draft as a 21-year-old mature-aged recruit, Barlow made an immediate impact at Fremantle.
In round one, 2010, Barlow put in what is still the most prolific game by a first-year-player with 33 possessions, two goals and four tackles.
He averaged close to 28 possessions and more than a goal per game before his debut season was cut short by a sickening leg injury, the result of an accidental clash with then teammate Rhys Palmer.
That year Barlow was recognised as the best first year player by both his teammates and the AFL Players’ Association, despite playing just 13 games.
After fearing for his career, the hard-running midfielder courageously made his return to AFL football 352 days later and resumed his place as one of Fremantle’s most dependable stoppage specialists.
He played a significant role in Fremantle’s success in four finals’ series between 2012 and 2015, and had reinvented himself as an attacking tagger this season before his 2016 campaign was cut short by a serious shoulder injury.
Any further updates on the club’s list will be advised prior to the AFL’s List Lodgement (1) on 31 October.
Fremantle list changes to date (in order of games played)
Primary List
Matthew Pavlich (retired)
Chris Mayne (moved to Collingwood as a free agent)
Matt de Boer (delisted)
Michael Barlow (delisted)
Tendai Mzungu (delisted)
Clancee Pearce (delisted)
Jack Hannath (delisted)
Brady Grey (delisted)
Rookie List
Anthony Morabito (delisted)
Tanner Smith (delisted)
Josh Deluca (delisted)
Sean Hurley (delisted)
