We will be seeing Seymour export Sam Durham fly up for some time yet.
The former Goulburn Valley junior has inked a new four-year contract extension at Essendon, which will keep him at the club until at least the end of 2028.
The new contract extends the mid-season draft success story after clubs initially overlooked Durham the first time of asking.
The Bombers swooped on him with the ninth selection at the 2021 mid-season draft and the hard runner got his first chance at AFL level less than a month after putting an apprenticeship on hold to chase the dream.
Since then, the 185cm midfielder has asserted himself as a mainstay within the Bombers’ side, moving up to the senior list before playing 22 games in 2023 and notching his 50th career outing in round one this season.
Red and black faithful won’t soon forget Durham’s most prominent contribution so far in the sash, coolly sinking a set shot with seconds left to give Essendon a memorable one-point Dreamtime win over Richmond last May.
Durham expressed his gratitude on the club website after securing four more years at Tullamarine.
“It's pretty surreal to sign with this great club,” Durham said.
“Coming from getting picked up on the rookie list to signing a two-year deal and now a four-year deal, it’s massive, not only for me but also my family.
“It was very special to call Mum up and give her the good news. I do this not only to play footy but to make my family and Mum proud.
“Bombers fans are awesome. You’ve always looked after me in my short time here and I can’t wait to see you all at games in the future.”
The 22-year-old hailed coach Brad Scott and assistant Daniel Giansiracusa as having been “massive for my development and confidence”.
Essendon football general manager Daniel McPherson clearly sees Durham bringing plenty to the table.
“Sam is a highly-regarded and much-loved member of our playing group, who has taken his football to the next level,” McPherson said.
“He is dedicated to becoming the best footballer he can and this deal is a fantastic reward for all his hard work over the past few years.
“Sam has become a very important player for us, and we’re excited about the player he can become for our footy club over the next four years and beyond.”