The Bombers have added talented youngster Jacob Atley to their VFL list, signing the former Bendigo Pioneers captain for the 2019 season.
The 18-year-old spent two seasons with the Pioneers in the TAC Cup competition, missing just two games in 2018.
Atley’s last match during the wildcard round was arguably one of his best, managing half of his side’s six goals, while collecting 21 disposals, 10 marks and four tackles.
The 2018 State Combine invitee looked to join older brothers Shaun (North Melbourne) and Joe (Port Adelaide) on AFL lists, but it wasn’t to be.
Jacob Atley in action for the Bendigo Pioneers during the 2018 TAC Cup. (Photo: AFL Media)
When Essendon VFL operations manager Ash Brown heard Atley had missed out on being drafted, he knew the club had to secure the versatile midfielder-defender.
“Jacob was a player we targeted that if he were to miss out on an AFL opportunity, then we should do what we can to get him into our VFL program,” Brown said.
“As soon as the last pick in the rookie draft was read out, we were on the phone to Jacob’s manager Alex McDonald.
“Jacob is an exciting prospect out of the under-18s competition who we feel can have an impact at VFL level in 2019.”
“At 191cm with speed and an impressive running capacity, he can play multiple positions which is important being in an AFL-aligned VFL program.”
Jacob Atley alongside new Essendon VFL captain Aaron Heppell during training. (Photo: Essendon Football Club)
Atley joins fellow new signings Kurt Aylett (Werribee), Ray Connellan (St Kilda) and Liam McKenna (Perth Demons), while 2018 players Aaron Heppell, Heath Hocking, Nino Lazzaro, Edyn Sibbald, Jake McQueen, Wilson Berry and Danny Younan have been re-signed.
More new recruits will be announced in the coming weeks as the Bombers finalise their 2019 VFL squad.
Brooke Varney is in the final year of her Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree at RMIT University. As part of their strategic partnership, Essendon Football Club and RMIT University are committed to providing opportunities for students, staff, players and the wider community.
