Essendon’s future continues to take shape with youngster Matt Guelfi becoming the latest Bomber to extend his contract at the club.
The new deal will see the 22-year-old don the sash until at least the end of 2021.
Guelfi’s re-signing on the eve of the Bombers’ elimination final against West Coast follows that of fan favourites Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and Mason Redman over the past week.
Guelfi has played 32 games in the red and black since being drafted by the Bombers with pick No.76 in the 2017 national draft.
The midfielder made his AFL debut in round four of the 2018 season and held his position in the senior side for a further 15 games in his first year.
The West Australian product said he was excited to continue his career at The Hangar.
“I am thrilled to remain at the Bombers and continue to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL,” Guelfi said.
“It’s pretty clear that we have an exciting list and we are building towards something special together.”
Guelfi played 17 games for Essendon this year, before he was sidelined for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn meniscus injury in early August.
Matt Guelfi played 17 games in his second season at the Bombers. (Photo: AFL Photos)
While he’ll miss the Bombers’ upcoming finals campaign, Guelfi said his teammates were ready for the challenge.
“The club has a great opportunity ahead on Thursday night and although I’m disappointed to be on the sidelines, I’m pumped to see what this group can achieve. Our best football stands up and we have a strong belief within the group,” Guelfi said.
“Looking ahead personally, I will continue to work hard through my rehabilitation program and get myself in the best position to have an impact on this side in 2020 and beyond.”
General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Guelfi was an important part of the club’s future.
“Since joining the club at the end of 2017, Matt has worked hard to become a key member of our midfield group and his contact extension is a fitting reward,” Dodoro said.
“Unfortunately, this year Matt’s season was cut short due to injury, but we have no doubt he will continue to dedicate himself to his rehabilitation program to ensure he is right to go for a big pre-season campaign ahead of next year.
“Matt joins a number of key players re-signing with the club in recent weeks including Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, Mason Redman, Sam Draper, Darcy Parish, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher and Patrick Ambrose and their collective belief is a pleasing reflection of their commitment to this football program.”
This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.
