Western Bulldogs premiership captain Ellie Blackburn will remain with the club for at least another four years after extending her contract until the end of 2027.
Blackburn, a five-time best & fairest winner, played arguably her best season at the kennel last year, averaging 27 disposals on a bottom-ranked side undergoing major off-season change.
She is the games record holder at the Bulldogs, has captained the club since their premiership year in 2018, is a three-time All-Australian and was even the club's leading goal-kicker in 2017.
In 2021, she received the honour of best AFLW captain by the AFLPA, solidifying her standing amongst the AFLW's most decorated players.
She has been trusted to lead the club moving forward with this recent contract extension, assisting new coach Tam Hyett and footy boss Patrice Berthold along with the very young playing list at the Bulldogs.
leads out the team during the round seven AFLW match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Western Bulldogs at on March 13, 2021 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)
"Being able to sign a long-term deal and commit to the club is something that I'm really proud of, and something that I'm really excited by," Blackburn said.
"I'm really embedded here and I love the club โ what it is and who we are here. I really like the way we represent that and want to be part of that for the long term.
"I love the way we operate as one โ particularly in the women's program being one of the first teams (in the AFLW competition). To be part of that is what drives my want to have more success here.
"I think the want for me is that premiership success again, and I want to do that with a group of people I've been playing with for a long time and particularly at this football club."
Having turned down a significant offer from Sydney ahead of the 2022 season, there is clear a motivation from Blackburn to remain a one-club player until retirement.
At 29 years old, this extension could potentially see out the end of Blackburn's playing career, though a coaching or assistance role at the club would certainly await her when she decides to call time.
