Jake Stringer Exits GWS Giants, Plans Return to Melbourne for Family in 2027

Jake Stringer has confirmed he will leave Greater Western Sydney after this weekend’s match against Adelaide, likely his final game in orange and charcoal. The 32-year-old AFL veteran is returning to Melbourne next season for family reasons, including his father’s illness and time with his two daughters. Stringer will reach his 250th AFL appearance in Saturday’s clash at Adelaide Oval before reassessing his playing future with a Victorian club.

Why Stringer is leaving GWS

Stringer cited family as his reason for the move. His father has been sick throughout 2026, and being away from his two daughters in Melbourne has been challenging. He told reporters on Thursday: “I’ll probably most likely go back to Melbourne, just for family reasons. My dad’s been sick throughout this whole year, and being away from my two girls back in Melbourne’s been challenging.”

The 32-year-old said he missed watching his daughters play netball and basketball. He felt the timing was right both for him and for GWS, which is refreshing its forward line with younger talent like Max Gruzewski.

Stringer’s contract status and next move

Stringer joined GWS from Essendon ahead of the 2025 season on a two-year deal that expires at the end of this year, making him an unrestricted free agent for 2027. AFL.com.au reported that Collingwood has shown interest in him for next season.

Despite leaving GWS, Stringer made clear he still has drive left. “Definitely feel like I’ve got quite a few more years left,” he said. However, he emphasised there has been no decision made about which club he will join, and plans to spend time with his family before working out his next steps.

Stringer’s Giants record and career path

Stringer has played 37 games for GWS, including a career-best seven goals in an upset win over ladder-leaders Fremantle last month. Saturday’s clash will mark his 250th AFL appearance overall. He played five seasons with the Western Bulldogs, featuring in the drought-breaking 2016 premiership, before spending seven years at Essendon.

His departure comes as fellow forward Jesse Hogan faces an uncertain future at the Giants. The 31-year-old has not played since a finger injury in June and has been linked to Gold Coast and Collingwood.

Giants facing list refresh

GWS is managing significant list changes. Captain Toby Greene, the club’s games record holder after 15 seasons, is also considering ending his career in Victoria. The club is prioritising younger forwards while managing contract pressures with out-of-contract veterans including Hogan and Stephen Coniglio.

Stringer expressed gratitude for his time at the club. “I’m just excited for this last game,” he said. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity. I’ve absolutely loved my time here.”

Final Thoughts

Stringer’s departure marks the end of a brief but productive two-year stint at GWS. With Collingwood reportedly interested and no club decision yet made, the veteran forward will reassess his options after Saturday’s milestone 250th game.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.