Premiership Demon Tom Sparrow has wasted no time extending his time at Melbourne after putting pen to paper on a two-year deal the day after his side's Round 1 victory.
While Sparrow's teammates were likely immersed in icebaths after the Redleg's 26-point win over fellow 2021 grand finalists in the Western Bulldogs, the 21-year-old took the opportunity to sign on the dotted line.
Sparrow was set to come out of contract at the cessation of this season, however, this fresh agreement will keep him in contention for selection until the end of 2024.
Following 28-appearances since 2019 and an immortalised place in Demons' history after the club's drought premiership last September, the South Australian started 2022 with aplomb, racking up 13 disposals on Wednesday night.
The former second-round draftee even earned high praise from Steven May as the only player with the capabilities to tag Melbourne's maestro, Christian Petracca.
"You know who really can stop him, [is] Tom Sparrow," May said of Sparrow on Fox Footy's post-game coverage.
"[It is] because he knows how he plays. Tom Sparrow's a gun. I think he's going to take a strong step this year. He's a strong bull and so is 'Trac'."
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Melbourne's List Manager Tim Lamb added to the youngster's plaudits by claiming that it is this competitiveness that is most valued by those splitting their weeks between AAMI Park and Casey Fields.
“We are rapt to have Tom sign on for a further two seasons,” Lamb told melbournefc.com.au.
“At just 21 years old, he is already developing into a really important player for us and he is a loved and respected member of our playing group.
“Tom is fiercely competitive and driven to get the best out of himself.
“We are excited to see where he can take his game over the next few years.”
Sparrow and the Demons will next lace their boots when they travel to take on Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium on Saturday, March 26.
