Your fix of Bomber news this week.
Parish pens five-year deal
Star midfielder Darcy Parish will remain a Bomber until at least 2028 after signing a five-year contract extension.
The 26-year-old is currently ranked first in the competition for average centre clearances per game, second in inside 50’s per game and equal third in disposals per game.
An essential component to the Bombers’ future in the midfield, Parish said the continued support from the club’s fanbase was key in his decision to sign on.
“Thank you to the Bomber faithful for sticking by me. We love the energy and support you provide this team and I’m grateful for your unwavering support,” Parish said.
“The best is yet to come for this team and I'm really looking forward to the future and where we can get to.
“We’ve got plenty of work to do but we’re all excited by the challenge and bringing success to Essendon.”
Merrett receives third All Australian blazer
Bombers captain Zach Merrett has been named in the All Australian side for 2023, capping off an outstanding first year as skipper.
Listed on the interchange, the honour marks Merrett’s third All Australian selection, previously rewarded in 2017 and ’21.
The 27-year-old averaged 29 disposals per game this season, good enough to be ranked 10th in the competition.
Merrett was the sole Bomber named in the final team, with teammates Mason Redman and Kyle Langford cracking the initial squad of 44.
AFLW season kicks off
After a lengthy pre-season, the Bombers will finally suit up for their AFLW season-opener against Hawthorn on Saturday night.
Adding to the occasion, star midfielder Georgia Gee will crack the 50-game milestone on the night.
Five club debutants will also see action against the Hawks, with Georgia Nanscawen, Brooke Walker, Brooke Brown, Georgia Clarke, and Kodi Jacques all named in the final team.
The two sides will lock horns at Kinetic Stadium in Frankston at 7:15pm, with the match to be broadcast on CH 7, Fox Footy and Kayo from 7pm AEST.
All your gameday information can be found here.
Grounded: Maddy Prespakis
Bombers’ AFLW gun Maddy Prespakis appears on the latest episode of Grounded.
The midfielder reflects on her rise as a player, as well as the importance of the close friendship with her grandmother.
Look out for her beloved canine companion Bam Bam, who also makes an appearance.
Langford eyeing big off-season
After a career-best season, forward Kyle Langford reflected on his 2023 campaign with the Bombers this week.
Booting 51 goals and handing off 20 goal assists this year, the 26-year-old made the All Australian squad of 44 for the first time in his career.
With sights still set on improvement, Langford is confident the side can bounce back from their late-season slump and come back stronger than ever.
