Former Essendon captain Dyson Heppell has bucked the trend of retiring veterans and will play on for another year to help guide a building group smashed by GWS last weekend.
Having been linked to a move to the Gold Coast Suns at the end of last season, Heppell, who signed a one year deal and stepped down from the captaincy, has been a mainstay in the Bombers defence this season.
The 31-year-old has played 21 of Essendon’s 22 games and has been given a further one-year deal, with his club’s finals chances extinguished for 2023 on the back of last week’s humiliating 126-point loss to the Giants.
“We’ve got an exciting crop of players coming through the club who have been fantastic this year,” said Heppell, who has played 233 games.
“Rolling into the club every day alongside them, all with the drive to develop and get better, is such a motivating factor in me going around again.
“I’ve loved my footy this year but especially enjoyed seeing my teammates grow and improve. I can’t wait to see the development continue throughout the group in 2024.”
Long-serving Essendon list boss Adrian Dodoro said Heppell’s guidance and leadership were vital to his teammates’ growth.
“Although Dyson no longer holds an official leadership position within the team, the guidance and support he provides to his fellow teammates is extremely valuable to our young side,” Dodoro said.
“His passion and love for the Essendon Football Club is immense, and he has been an instrumental figure around the club for many years.
“We are thrilled to have Dyson remain at the club, not only for his contribution on the field but for his impact on the wider club.”