Christmas has come early for the Bomber faithful, with captain Dyson Heppell extending his contract for a further two years.
Heppell has turned his back on free agency, opting to extend his current deal that will now see him remain in the red and black until at least the end of 2022.
The Bombers are also delighted to advise that Heppell has been unanimously endorsed by both his peers and the club to continue as captain for the 2020 season.
The 27-year-old has had a decorated career to date, claiming the Ron Evans AFL Rising Star award in his first season in 2011.
Three years later, he claimed his first Crichton Medal as the Bombers’ best and fairest, while also receiving All-Australian honours.
At just 24 years of age, the lifelong Essendon supporter took over the captaincy from Jobe Watson in 2017.
The Leongatha product said it was an easy decision to recommit to the Bombers.
“When the approach was made, it was a fairly straightforward process to recommit to the club and it’s nice to have it done before the break,” Heppell said.
“I am incredibly proud to be able to wear the Essendon jumper and play for the side that I grew up supporting, but to go around again as captain of the club again is a true honour.
“There is a really good feeling at the club and the boys are all really committed to continual improvement. We’re not setting any limits on what we can achieve next year but we know we need to build our consistency to match it with the top sides on-field.
“We have laid some really solid foundations and we’ll build on those into the pre-season next year when we come back from the Christmas break.
“I really believe in the direction we’re heading as a football club. We have a committed and driven young group of players who want to achieve the ultimate success together, so I can’t wait to get stuck into 2020 and lead this group.”
General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said he was thrilled to secure Heppell’s signature ahead of the new year.
"There’s no doubting Dyson Heppell’s commitment and loyalty to the Essendon Football Club. He is a great captain,” Dodoro said.
“Dyson is an important part of the future of Essendon, not only through what he offers on-field but his leadership and drive in demanding the best from himself and his peers.”
Heppell has played 169 games for the Bombers since joining the club as a top-10 pick via the 2010 national draft.
This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.
