A memorable finish to a great footy career. Farewell Jarryd Lyons.

BY LAURA HUBERT

After seven years of a dominant AFL career, spanning 3 clubs, 194 senior AFL/VFL games, and now an additional 21 SANFL games, Jarryd Lyons is hanging up his boots.

In a memorable last season, Jarryd shared every step of the final journey with his younger brother, Corey.

The excitement of training, playing, and reuniting as teammates was felt by everyone at the Bays, both on and off the field, when Jarryd slotted his first goal alongside Corey during Glenelg’s dominant round-one win over Port Adelaide at Alberton. It wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard, it was the first official senior game the Lyons brothers had played together, a milestone that will be remembered at the club for years to come.

For Jarryd, it was the perfect way to return to local footy and cap off a career defined by hard work, skill, and leadership. For Corey, it was a rare privilege to share the field with a brother he has long admired, not just as a teammate, but as a mentor and role model.

“I thought SANFL would be a perfect fit,” Jarryd said, reflecting on his decision to come home and finish his career at Glenelg during his Checkside Chats episode with Zac Milbank earlier this year.

Jarryd’s return to the Bays marked his first time playing for the Tigers since 2013, and his impact was immediate. His presence helped the club reach Adelaide Oval for a third grand final in as many years. On and off the field, he provided experience, guidance, and a sense of calm leadership, stepping into a midfield role left by Chris Curran after the 2024 premiership win.

“Whilst it was short in tenure, we were so lucky to have Jarryd and his family in and around the club for the 2025 season,” said Glenelg Captain Liam McBean. “He leaves with an incredibly accomplished resume across a number of leagues, and his influence will be remembered long after he steps off the field.”

Though Glenelg didn’t capture ultimate success in 2025, Jarryd’s legacy will be long-lasting. He played alongside a group contributing to what many consider Glenelg’s greatest era of all time, bringing skill, vision, and leadership. Beyond the stats and games, his return symbolised the full-circle nature of his football journey.

As Jarryd Lyons steps away from SANFL football, the memories of his career, from AFL highlights in Queensland to his triumphant return home, will be etched in Bays history, highlighted by his Snouts Louts award win at the conclusion of season 2025.

For fans, teammates, and family alike, Jarryd’s journey serves as a reminder that there’s no footy quite like Bays footy, and that even big names like Jarryd struggle to leave the black and gold behind.

“For the supporters, my journey all started at the Glenelg Footy Club back in 2011 and I’ve always felt apart of the Club from the moment I walked in the door. It was privilege to be able to get back for one more season, and although we didn’t quite get there, the support from the Bay faithful was incredible. And to be awarded the Snouts Louts award was very humbling and a great way to finish my time at the club. Although I won’t be playing next year, I’ll always be around and look forward to being apart of the Past Players now,” Jarryd said.