Essendon AFLW star Madison Prespakis has inked a new four-year deal that will see the Bombers ball magnet remain at Tullamarine until the end of the 2027 season.
Entering her third year in the red and black, Prespakis' retention is a significant signing for Essendon's future as they looked to improve on their finals-finishing 2023 season.
Prespakis averaged 26.2 disposals and 5.1 tackles per game for the Bombers last year to back up her stellar season seven campaign, where she won best and fairest and All-Australian honours in Essendon's inaugural season.
A lifelong Essendon fan, Prespakis said it was an easy decision to recommit to the club for the long term.
"It's super special to have signed. It's not a hidden fact that I've grown up an Essendon supporterโmy Nan used to bring us to Windy Hill, and I'd be running around getting as many player signatures as possible," she said in a club announcement.
"As a kid, I never dreamt of being an Essendon AFLW player, but now I'm in the shoes of one, and it's pretty special.
"I pinch myself every time I drive down the driveway at the Hangar and it's a surreal feeling to run out here (Windy Hill) for our home games. I just love every moment I get to wear the red and black.
"Signing for four years is something I'm extremely grateful for. To have the club want me to be part of the fabric for the next four years is incredibly special. I'm a leader in the side and I want to harness everything to bring success to the Essendon Football Club."
Prespakis has played 55 games in the AFLW, having started her career with Carlton before crossing to the Bombers amid the league's expansion to 18 clubs.
The 2020 AFLW best and fairest winner claimed a trio of club champion nods in the navy blue and almost made it two from two at Essendon - finishing second to Bonnie Toogood in last year's count.
"To have a player of Maddy's calibre and capability commit to the club on a four-year deal is not only a fantastic reflection of Maddy's ability but also the direction the AFLW program is heading in," Essendon AFLW list manager Georgia Harvey said.
"Maddy has grown significantly over the past two years, evidenced by her elevation into our leadership group ahead of the 2023 season, and she continues to be driven and committed to developing her own game.
"A Bomber through and through, Maddy has immense passion and pride for the Essendon Football Club. We look forward to seeing what she can achieve over the next four years."
While Essendon's Round 1 opponent is yet to be determined, the 2024 season will commence in late August.
