Melbourne have re-signed young Demons Will Verrall and Oliver Sestan on respective one-year deals, keeping the duo on the club's rookie list for 2024.
Verrall was drafted by the club with pick 14 in the 2022 AFL Rookie Draft and is yet to debut for the Demons. A 200cm ruck prospect, the 19-year-old has been sidelined with a pelvis injury throughout his first year at the club.
Speaking to club media, Demon list manager Tim Lamb welcomed Verrall's contract extension, praising his efforts throughout his recovery.
“As a young developing tall, Will was showing some exciting traits before he was sidelined with injury,” Melbourne List Manager Tim Lamb told Melbourne Media.
“The way he has attacked his rehab process has been first class, and we think he has a bright future at our club. We look forward to him continuing to develop his game.”
A double dose of young talent.✍️
Will Verrall + Ollie Sestan have re-signed.
📝 | https://t.co/Jv3hQSVBYF pic.twitter.com/84jZyyK5Xe
— Melbourne Demons (@melbournefc) May 31, 2023
Sestan was also picked up in the 2022 Rookie Draft, heading to the Demons with pick 28.
The 19-year-old remains on the rookie list aside Verrall as he continues his development in the VFL, where he has kicked 10 goals so far this year.
“Oliver has been super impressive in his time with us,” Lamb said.
“As we know, he didn't come through the traditional talent pathway, but has adapted to life as a professional athlete extremely well.
“What we are seeing from Oliver at VFL level and in training gives us confidence that he has the tools to take his game to a high level.”
The new deals sees the duo recommitted to the club until at least the end of 2024.