Fremantle forward Matt Taberner has signed a two-year contract extension that will see him remain at the Dockers until at least the end of the 2019 season.
The 24-year-old played eight senior games in 2017, but excelled in the WAFL as Peel Thunder won the 2017 grand final.
Taberner kicked 41 goals in 16 matches this season, and was a dominant figure in Peel's finals matches, booting eight goals across three games.
With a number of Victorian clubs in the market for a tall forward, the Docker turned his back on the interest, suggesting it was an easy decision for him to make.
“I’m settled in Perth and I’m looking forward to playing for at least a few more years with this playing group,” Taberner told fremantlefc.com.au.
“I know where I want to play my footy which is at Fremantle and I think this is where I can play my best football.
“We have lots of good leaders and role models at the club and I’ll work really closely with David Hale and Brett Guerra to develop my footy.
“I’ve learnt from the more experienced players like Nathan Fyfe, David Mundy and Aaron Sandilands, they are really strong leaders.
“The thought of playing at the new Perth Stadium definitely excites me, it looks world class and I am really looking forward to playing there in front of a big Freo crowd.”
Fremantle's general manager of list management Brad Lloyd told the club's website they were happy with Taberner's decision to stick around, and are exciting about what he could be in the future.
“Matt is an important player on our list and is a developing forward who continues to grow every year,” Lloyd said.
“He had some strong performances throughout the 2017 season and played some outstanding football at Peel Thunder.
“We’re delighted that he has extended at the club and we look forward to seeing his continued development.”
