Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli has re-signed with the AFL leaders on a four-year deal until the end of the 2025 season.
The Bulldogs captain was eligible for restricted free agency at season’s end but has instead signed a four-year deal.
Bontempelli, 25, is arguably in career-best form in 2021, averaging 26.6 disposals and 7.2 inside-50s along with booting 15 goals in 10 games.
“Ultimately, I see this club doing some really good things over the next four years and hopefully longer,” Bontempelli said.
“I’m keen to be as much a part of that as I can be.
“I always wanted to stay a Bulldog. It was important for me to take the appropriate time with this decision and to have the right conversations before re-signing.
“It’s pleasing to know I’ll continue to be part of the journey at this football club.”
The No.4 draft pick in 2013, Bontempelli has played 155 games, including helping the Bulldogs to their breakthrough premiership in 2016 – and was named captain ahead of the 2020 season.
Bontempelli is already a three-time All-Australian and has won the Charles Sutton Medal – the Bulldogs’ best and fairest award – three times.
“We’re thrilled to have Marcus commit to four more years with the Western Bulldogs,” list manager Sam Power said.
“It’s a great reflection of the confidence he has in the playing group and the direction we’re heading in as a club.
“Marcus has been a very good player for a long period of time and has now established himself among the competition’s elite.
“… Marcus has already achieved so much across his eight years as a Bulldog.
“This long-term commitment ensures he will continue to be an integral part of our club’s push for success on and off the field in the years to come.”
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Nah neither have l Prefer not to have a jab Hate bloody needles
1dog
Roar Rookie
I may be in the next group rolled out. I haven’t really been affected by covid
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Jerry, just remember it’s not a lie if you believe it!
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Your a young chicken! Well l’ve been blessed by the gov’t announcing my age group today!
1dog
Roar Rookie
I’m not old enough yet
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Get your vaccine yet?
1dog
Roar Rookie
PTS
1dog
Roar Rookie
Jazz or 6ers I hope. Been to busy to watch any the last few days. How about you?
Chanon
Roar Rookie
You talking to me?
Naughty's Headband
Roar Rookie
Excellent. I didn't think he'd leave but it's good to have it in the bank. He's an outstanding man, Marcus, not just on the field but in the way he carries and handles himself off the field. Our footy club is very lucky to have such a leader.
Chanon
Roar Rookie
True & endone for the pain relief!
nics
Roar Rookie
You too! Well at least the footy is on to distract the masses. :laughing:
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Fair enough mate, keep safe stay well.
nics
Roar Rookie
Hence why we cancelled haha. Airbnb prices rack up after a while...
Charlie Keegan
Roar Guru
Yes I’m very very happy, I think Cox will be a centre half back or centre half forward for us and Zach Reid will be a key back along with Cody brand. I think we’ve still got a couple of young guns yet to debut.
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Nics if all hell breaks loose and your not in WA you won’t get back mate!
Chanon
Roar Rookie
True Fodo was excellent your young kids look very promising You must be rapt!
nics
Roar Rookie
I'm generally a supporter for reasons which don't bear repeating here but yes strictness with borders is the price to pay.
Charlie Keegan
Roar Guru
Honestly very surprised that Mcgowans popularity held throughout the pandemic
Charlie Keegan
Roar Guru
Yep my actual training is public health and while I’m willing to admit that Dan Andrew’s handling hasn’t been great but fellow bombers fans gotta look out for one another while Dan Andrew’s is getting on the beers