Essendon Football Club is thrilled to announce Cale Hooker will return to the Club next season after signing a new five year deal.
At 27 years of age, the reigning Crichton Medallist and All-Australian defender’s new contract will see him remain a Bomber for life.
Hooker said his decision to return to Essendon wasn’t made lightly.
“At the end of the day my decision was based on what I was most passionate about and that is to play football at the Essendon Football Club,” Hooker said.
“After taking some time to make sure my mind was clear, the decision to stay just feels right. I believe in the playing group and the football club going forward.
“The way the supporters have stood by us has been incredible. To see the walk before the Melbourne game and the way the boys performed was really powerful.”
Senior Coach, John Worsfold, said he was pleased Cale had made the decision to continue his career at Essendon next season.
“This is great news for the Club, it’s a strong reflection on Cale’s personal character and loyalty, but also reinforces his belief in the Club and our vision,” Worsfold said.
“Cale is an elite player in the competition, he’s the reigning Crichton Medallist and he’s a champion bloke, so he’s a great person to have around the Club.”
“Cale was a free agent, and arguably the most sought after free agent, so we are rapt that he has decided he wants to be a part of what we are building at the football Club.”
CEO, Xavier Campbell, said Cale’s decision to stay is a vote of confidence in the direction of the Club.
“I’m thrilled Cale has signed on as a Bomber for the next five years,” Campbell said.
“Cale is an important part of the future of our football Club. He is a tremendous person, a great role model and an exceptional football player.
“He can see we are building a strong team under John Worsfold and I know Essendon members and supporters are extremely happy Cale will be in the red and black for life.”
Hooker joins Heath Hocking and Travis Colyer as the third Bomber to recommit to the Club for the 2017 season.
