Marty Hore's journey at Melbourne will continue into 2025, with the fringe defender signing a one-year contract extension, extending his second stint with the club following his return to the red and blue.
Hore, who was initially drafted by Melbourne in 2018 and featured prominently in his debut 2019 season, rejoined the Demons through the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period (SSP) last year and has now been rewarded with another opportunity.
Hore, 28, made six senior appearances for Melbourne in 2024, while also playing seven games for VFL affiliate Casey.
His performances earned praise from Melbourne List Manager Tim Lamb, who expressed the club's satisfaction with Hore's resilience under the adversity of Melbourne's list squeeze.
โWe've been really impressed by Marty since he returned to the club,โ Lamb said.
โHe arrived with a great attitude and willingness to learn, and has embraced every challenge that has come his way, including a couple of injury setbacks this season.
"Marty is continuing to improve in all areas of his game, and we look forward to him having great impact for us in 2025.โ
Hore's AFL career began when Melbourne selected him with pick No.56 in the 2018 National Draft. He made his debut in 2019 and went on to play 14 games before an ACL injury in 2021 sidelined him for the season, leading to his delisting.
However, his perseverance and strong form in the VFL with both North Melbourne and Williamstown earned him back-to-back selections in the VFL Team of the Year, which ultimately led to his return to Melbourne in 2024.
Now re-established as part of Melbourne's defensive unit, Hore will continue to provide depth support in their rebounding stocks behind Judd McVee, Jake Bowey, Christian Salem and company.
Hore will remain on Melbourne's rookie list for 2025, with hopes of building on his recent form and making further contributions at AFL level.
