Ruckman Andrew Phillips has become the latest Bomber to recommit, signing a one-year deal to keep him at the club until at least the end of 2021.
Acquired in last year’s trade period from Carlton, the 29-year-old played five games in his first season with the red and black, featuring predominantly as a ruckman who can push forward.
The 201cm tall has played 46 games across a nine-year career that started as a Greater Western Sydney foundation player, renowned as a hard-working player who possesses great ground coverage, an impressive leap and strong hands.
In 2020, Phillips placed seventh in the AFL for centre clearances per game (2.4) and 12th for hitouts per game (21.4).
Phillips said he was delighted to remain at the NEC Hangar for next season.
“I’m really happy to have signed on for a further year with the club,” Phillips said.
“I feel I have a lot to give to the team and I’m really confident that another pre-season under my belt with this group will allow me to contribute and add a lot of value as a player.
“It’s an exciting time to re-sign with the club, because there’s a really good feeling amongst the group, and I’m super keen to work with guys like Sam Draper, Nick Bryan and now Peter Wright, who all have potential and are growing as players.
“I can’t wait to return for pre-season training, and I look forward to what’s ahead for 2021.”
General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Phillips’ re-signing would ensure strong competition among the club’s ruck stocks.
“We’re happy to have Andrew on board for next season,” Dodoro said.
“In a short amount of time at the club, Andrew has shown he’s a hard-working member of the side and a terrific person who is well respected by teammates, coaches and staff.
“Andrew will help provide support to players like Sam Draper and Peter Wright, and the experience he’s acquired over his long career will help further their development and provide a willing competitiveness for spots in the side.
“We look forward to seeing Andrew for pre-season and for him to help contribute to our 2021 aspirations.”
Phillips joins Jayden Laverde and Brayden Ham in signing new deals this week.
This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.
