Young Bombers forward Irving Mosquito is locked in for 2021 after signing a one-year deal.

Selected with pick No.38 in the 2018 NAB AFL Draft from Gippsland Power, the lively goalsneak made a memorable debut in this season’s Dreamtime in Darwin blockbuster, slotting two goals in an eye-catching display.

The Halls Creek product slotted comfortably into the Bombers’ forward line, thrilling fans with his high-pressure tackling, composed ball use and keen goal sense.

The 20-year-old played four consecutive games in his second year at the NEC Hangar, but succumbed to an ACL rupture in Essendon’s round 16 fixture against Geelong. He is undergoing a rehabilitation program following successful surgery.

Mosquito said he was thrilled to have signed on for 2021.

“I’m very happy to have committed to the club for next season,” Mosquito said.

“Making my debut in the Dreamtime game in Darwin was a dream come true. The roar of the crowds was just something I will never forget. I really enjoyed this year and to play four games this season was even better.

“It was obviously frustrating to go down with a knee injury after playing a few games, but I’m determined to go through all the rehab processes and come back better for next season to continue developing my game at AFL level and play my role in the forward line. I’ve loved playing alongside ‘Walla’ (Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti) and he’s been a great mentor for me.”

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Mosquito’s new deal was a testament to the impact he had in his first four senior games.

“We’re pleased to offer Irving a contract extension into 2021,” Dodoro said.

“He brings a lot of energy to our group as a young player and his teammates really enjoy his presence around the club.

“While it will be a long rehabilitation process to get Irving back from his ACL injury, we see a lot of potential in the way he plays because he possesses a lot of traits which can make him a great small forward if he continues to work hard and apply himself to his game.

“We look forward to seeing him return from his injury setback and continue developing under the guidance of ‘Truck’ (Ben Rutten) when he can eventually take to the field again next season.”   

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.