Rookie Pup puts pen to paper on Kennel extension

Rookie Bulldogs James O'Donnell has put pen to paper on a two-year contract extension, tying the 20-year-old to the Kennel until the cessation of the 2025 season.

The son of former Saint and international cricketer Simon O'Donnell, the rangy defender made his way to the Bulldogs in April, joining as a Category B Rookie.

Yet, O'Donnell would not be forced to wait long before tasting senior action, making his AFL debut during the Dogs' Round 9 win over the Blues.

Since mid-May, O'Donnell has donned the red, white and blue on a further nine occasions.

Speaking by way of an official club statement, the stopper stated he was "over the moon" to have committed his future to the club.

“It's just pure excitement to have re-signed,” O'Donnell said.

“The last four months have just been incredible, to sign for two years and for the Club to put faith in me to hopefully influence a successful team is very exciting. I am over the moon.”

“It's been a whirlwind journey; it is surreal. It hit me between the eyes a little bit – but each step I've taken forward I've had so much fun.

“From the start of the year being at Essendon Cricket Club to now, playing a few games and signing on, it's been special.”

O'Donnell featured during the Bulldogs' shock loss to Hawthorn last weekend and remains in the selection frame for the eighth-placed club's upcoming fixture against West Coast this Sunday afternoon at Marvel Stadium.