Essendon have announced that midfielder Andrew McGrath has signed a new deal with the Bombers that will see him remain at Tullamarine until the end of the 2022 season.
The 22-year-old flourished in 2020, finishing fifth for the Crichton Medal and averaging close to 23 disposals per match.
McGrath stated his excitement to sign the two-year extension with Essendon.
“It’s great to be able to put pen to paper on a new deal and I’m thankful to the club for the opportunity and faith they continue to show in me. I am extremely determined to get the best out of myself and this whole playing group in order for us to move forward as a club,” McGrath said.
“There is real belief amongst the players in the next phase we enter under ‘Truck’ (Ben Rutten), and there is some great young talent throughout our playing group so our supporters should be excited by this. Our young group combined with our experienced leaders are extremely committed to growth, improvement and success in the coming years.”
Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro commended McGrath's professionalism on and off the field.
“Not only is Andy a quality footballer, he is a wonderful person who continues to set the example with his professionalism both on and off the field. Clearly, Andy has very natural leadership qualities at a young age and he is highly respected by his teammates,” Dodoro said.
“He has been one of our most consistent performers through the midfield this year, and his drive and determination to get the most out of himself week in and week out is a credit to him.
“Working closely with our leaders in the midfield, Andy has adapted well to his new role this season and he will continue to learn and develop his game over the coming years.”
McGrath was taken with the first overall selection in the 2016 draft and has since played 76 games in the red and black, collecting the 2017 Rising Star Award along the way.
