Essendon will honour some of its past and present champions at a special function next Saturday night.

For tickets to the Milestones and Hall of Fame Induction click here.

Jake Melksham – 100 games

Jake Melksham confirmed his status as one of the best young talents in the country with a best on ground performance in the Calder Cannons Under 18 Grand Final win in 2009.

Two months later he was selected by Essendon with the number ten pick in the National Draft.

He made his debut against Carlton in round three of 2010 and collected 18 possessions as the side recorded an 18-point win.

Melksham played 14 games that season and 23 the next, including the Elimination Final against the Blues.

He has become a regular feature in the Bombers midfield throughout his six years at the club, playing his 100^th game against Collingwood on Anzac Day earlier this season.

After missing out on selection in last season’s finals loss to North Melbourne, Melksham made a bright start to 2015.

He has been given some important ‘run-with’ roles in the absence of Heath Hocking.

The junior pugilist turned Bomber midfielder is tough, aggressive and highly skilled.  He will be a key plank in Essendon’s quest for its next premiership.

Ben Howlett – 100 games

The West Australian had been overlooked in several drafts before the Bombers selected him in the 2010 Rookie Draft.

He made his debut in round one of that season, collecting 16 possessions and kicking a goal against Geelong.

Howlett played 15 games in 2010 and has played at least 19 in each subsequent season.

Originally from Peel Thunder, Howlett is one of the side’s best tacklers. 

He’s currently ranked number two across the competition, averaging nearly seven tackles per game.

But the hard at it onballer has also shown a propensity to kick goals.

He kicked five against Richmond last season and booted four in a memorable win against Adelaide to start the 2013 season. 

Howlett played his 100^th game in the round three win over Carlton this season.

His team orientated style is highly valued by teammates and coaching staff.