Emerging GWS ruckman Nick Madden has shunned rival interest to commit his future to his boyhood club, signing a four-year extension.
With clubs, namely Richmond, coming hard for the 22-year-old, 204cm commodity, rivals learned a deal had been struck with their big man, who first made his way to Western Sydney via the 2022 Rookie Draft.
Madden will look to leave nagging injuries in his rearview, signing a four-year extension that ties him to the expansion club until the conclusion of the 2030 season.
Giants' highly regarded football boss Jason McCartney spoke of his delight at Madden's shunning of opposition interest.
"It's fantastic to have Nick commit to the club for the next four years," McCartney said.
"Ruckmen often take a bit longer to develop but we're really pleased with where he's already at and it's exciting to see how much more he can grow over the coming years.
"He's got a great hunger to compete, which paired with his size and his skillset makes him a really promising player.
"He's also a terrific young fella who is highly valued by his teammates and our football program, so we're really happy thrilled that he sees his future here at the Giants."
GWS ruckman Nick Madden has signed a four-year extension until the end of 2030.
Madden was being chased by Richmond but has committed long term to the Giants.
He's played 3 games this season.@zerohanger
— Aidan Cellini (@aidancellini4) July 2, 2026
The move leaves Richmond scrambling for ruck depth, with Madden believed to have been priority 1A for recruiters at Punt Road, as they look to prepare for life after Toby Nankervis.
The man who competes against Madden for selection, in Kieren Briggs, shapes as a consolation prize for the Tigers, with the combative, physical ruckman in Nankervis' mold, and an unrestricted free agent at season's end.
