Bulldogs star Jack Macrae has inked a five-year contract extension with the club to remain at the Kennel until the end of the 2027 season.
The Dogs ball-magnet has been a cornerstone in the club's dominant run in recent years, amassing almost 29 possessions per game across 186 appearances in the blue, white and red.
A three-time All-Australian, premiership player and Gary Ayres Medal winner, Macrae has built a decorated career at Whitten Oval since making his debut in 2013 against Adelaide.
Having now turned his back on free agency and likely becoming a one-club player for his career, Macrae expressed his delight to have re-signed for the long haul.
“This Club means an enormous amount to me and my family and I couldn’t be happier to commit my future to the Western Bulldogs,” Macrae said.
“I’m extremely passionate about the direction this club is taking, and I am so proud to wear the red, white and blue every week.
“It’s an exciting time to be involved at the Bulldogs. I am determined to help this side continue to strive for on-field success, but also drive a really strong culture within the playing group.”
Macrae departs the bevy of Bulldogs yet to re-sign past this season, with the club still yet to secure the futures of star names in Josh Dunkley, Tim English, Caleb Daniel, Bailey Dale and Bailey Smith, among others.
While list manager Sam Power will have the hard task of retaining each key name for 2023 and beyond, Macrae's signature is a major stepping stone for the club's future.
“We’re thrilled to have Jack commit to five more years with the Western Bulldogs,” Power said.
“Jack has become a vital player for the Club and now sits among some of the best midfielders in the competition.
“He is an individual that is selfless in his actions, both on and off the field, while continuing to drive high standards of himself and those around him.
“Being elevated to the vice-captain role shows the respect he has from team-mates, and he will be integral to the continued success of the football club going forward."
Macrae was elevated to vice-captain for the 2022 season, joining Aaron Naughton, Taylor Duryea and Caleb Daniel in supporting skipper Marcus Bontempelli.
The Bulldogs are now looking to claim their first win of the season on Thursday night when they face the Blues at Marvel Stadium.
