Essendon is delighted to announce young midfielder Ben Hobbs will wear the red and black until at least the end of 2025 after signing a new two-year contract today.
The 19-year-old was the Bombers’ top pick in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft selected with pick 13.
Hailing from Horsham in Victoria, Hobbs played 17 AFL games in his first season at Essendon earning a NAB AFL Rising Star Nomination after an impressive game against St Kilda in Round 14 last year.
Hobbs has played four games this year after a delayed start with injury.
“I’ve loved my time at Essendon and feel honoured every time I wear the red and black jumper with our proud and cherished history,” Hobbs said.
“I’m excited about what we’re building at Essendon under Brad and know the club is providing the best environment for me to play my best footy.
“We’re all clear on what we want to achieve and what we’re building together. The team is committed to building the foundations that enables us to be competitive every single week and I can’t wait to see where this group can get to.”
Hobbs played one of his best games for the Bombers against Brisbane last weekend recording a career-high 22 disposals and nine marks.
General Manager of List and Recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Hobbs is a key part of the future of Essendon.
“Ben was recruited as an inside midfielder but has worked really hard on bringing his strengths to other positions on the ground,” Dodoro said.
“In just his second year of AFL footy, he continues to improve every week and is showing all the right signs of a very good midfielder.
“Ben is a key member of our core group of young players who are critical to our ascendancy up the ladder, and we’re excited to lock away another young player.”
Hobbs will play his 22nd AFL game this Saturday night against Richmond at the MCG.
