Ruckman Andrew Phillips is the latest Bomber to recommit, earning a one-year contract extension.

The new deal will see the 30-year-old remain at the NEC Hangar until at least the end of 2022, with the news following this week’s re-signings of Matt Guelfi and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher. 

The Tasmanian arrived at the Bombers via the 2019 trade period from Carlton, having also played for Greater Western Sydney as a foundation Giant.

He has notched up 52 senior games, including six in 2021. 

Eight of the 11 games he has played for Essendon have resulted in wins, with Phillips’ classy tap work, experience and competitiveness his key strengths.

Phillips said he was excited for the future of the emerging Bombers. 

“The club has shown great faith in me since I arrived back in 2019 and I am really grateful but motivated to repay that faith,” Phillips said.

“Personally, I get a lot out of seeing the growth of Sammy Draper and Nick Bryan and even Peter Wright this year, so it’s been great working closely with those guys who are going to take this club forward in the coming years. 

“We have a long way to go as a playing group and we know the challenge that’s ahead of us this weekend against Collingwood, but we’re building strong foundations as a football program and I’m excited to be a part of that again next season.” 

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Phillips had earned the reward. 

“We’re really pleased to give Andrew another opportunity. He is a popular and respected teammate at our club,” Dodoro said.

“Andrew has proved he is a very good ruckman with the versatility to go up forward. We think he still has some of his best football ahead of him, and will continue to be a terrific mentor for the likes of Sam Draper and Nick Bryan as well as Peter Wright.”

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.