Vaunted Baby Bomber Elijah Tsatas has strengthened his ties at Tullamarine, signing a new two-year deal to remain with Essendon until at least the end of the 2026 season.
A promising ball-magnet, the 19-year-old was selected by the Dons with the 5th Pick of the 2022 AFL Draft, making the cross-town shift from the Oakleigh Chargers to join Brad Scott's roster.
While stuck on the sidelines during the early stages of his first season in red and black, Tsatas managed to break through for a debut before the end of 2023, finishing the year with four games to his name.
Across the course of his four outings, the fresh-faced teenager impressed, with Tsatas averaging north of 16 disposals per outing, as well as slotting a goal in the Bombers' Round 22 win over North Melbourne.
Speaking to Bombers Media as the ink dried on his new deal, Tsatas stated that he was more than happy to repay the club's faith in him.
“I am super excited about our young core group of players and how committed we are to improving everyday,” Tsatas said.
“Essendon drafted me, and I have always been incredibly grateful for that. I can't wait to go forward with this group for at least another two years.
“The coaches have instilled so much confidence in me over this pre-season. It has allowed me to develop my game and body massively, and I have so much more improvement left, which is so exciting.”
Essendon GM Daniel McPherson expressed his own excitement, claiming the winger was well-placed to continue making strides in the short and long term.
“Elijah is an exciting prospect for us and we are thrilled to have him commit until at least the end of 2026,” McPherson said.
“After an injury-interrupted start to 2023, Elijah demonstrated his impact on the field throughout his four games at AFL level, and we are excited to see where he can take his game this year and beyond.
“He has worked hard across the pre-season to ensure he is continuously learning and developing the skills needed to be an AFL footballer. We look forward to seeing him in the red and black for many years.”
Tsatas will earn his next opportunity to get his hands dirty when he and the Dons travel to Moorabbin to face St Kilda on Friday afternoon.
Essendon's 2023 season proper will commence when facing old enemies Hawthorn on Saturday, March 16 at Marvel Stadium.
