Departing West Coast Eagles defender Tom Barrass says he hopes teammates can understand his decision

Outgoing West Coast defender Tom Barrass has spoken for the first time since requesting a trade to Hawthorn, expressing his love for his teammates and saying he hopes they understand his decision.

Barrass was accepting a life membership after playing his 150th game in the round 20 western derby, which would turn out to be his last appearance for the club.