Essendon has bolstered its tall stocks and finalised its 2020 list with the arrival of Henry Crauford.
Crauford, 22, joins the Bombers via the pre-season supplemental selection period from SANFL club Norwood.
The 204cm prospect won the SANFL reserves' best and fairest award in 2019, averaging 16 disposals, five clearances and 27 hitouts on his way to winning a flag at that level.
Hailing from Mount Gambier, Crawford originally pursued a career in the pool, competing in swimming at state and national levels before shifting his attention to Australian Football in 2016.
General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Crauford would add to the Bombers' versatility.
“We are pleased to welcome Henry to the club through the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period,” Dodoro said.
“Henry is a great young man that will broaden our ruck depth and has the ability to play as a tall forward. He displays good athleticism and endurance for a man of his height.
“After careful consideration and monitoring several players over the past three months, we feel that Henry is the best fit for us and what we required for our team demographics."
Crauford's signature follows that of Tom Hird, who last week joined the club on a two-year contract as a non-registered athlete under the eligible Category B rookie rules.
This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.
