Conor McKenna’s AFL dream is set to continue with the Irishman agreeing to a one-year contract extension that will see him remain at the Bombers until the end of 2017.
McKenna was recruited to the Club as a Category B Rookie in the National Rookie Draft in 2014 and as part of his new deal will be elevated to the Club’s senior list.
McKenna said he was excited to continue his future in the red and black.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at the Bombers so far and am looking forward to what we can achieve under Woosha’s leadership,” McKenna said.
“Since arriving at the Club, I’ve worked really closely with the coaches to fast-track my development as much as possible and am really happy with the way things are progressing.
“I’ve learnt a lot this season, and I can’t wait to get back into training ready for 2017.”
Senior Coach, John Worsfold, says the Club is pleased to secure McKenna’s services for the upcoming season.
“Conor is an exciting and powerful player with a natural athletic talent who has worked really hard to understand and learn our game," Worsfold said.
“We were particularly pleased with his form in the VFL this season and the last couple of weeks in the AFL so we are looking forward to what he can produce for 2017 and beyond.
“He always brings plenty of energy and intensity with his exceptional speed and endurance and we believe Conor has a bright future as a Bomber.”
Essendon List and Recruiting Manager, Adrian Dodoro, said McKenna had worked hard on his craft in pursuit of his AFL ambitions.
"This is great news for the Essendon family and it's a great reward for the hard work Conor has put in since day one," Dodoro said.
“He has elite speed and agility and has shown great improvement with his foot skills since adjusting to the oval ball.
“Conor is a great Club person, who is truly dedicated to becoming an elite player in the game so we are really looking forward to watching him develop both on and off the field in the years to come.”
McKenna grew up playing Gaelic football in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland with the Tyrone Minors.
He spent the 2015 season building his skills while simultaneously learning the game playing with the Club’s VFL team before making his debut with the Bombers in Round 22, 2015 against Richmond at the MCG. He secured a goal with his first kick of the game and has played 14 AFL games to date.
