Fremantle ruckman Sean Darcy has turned his back on impending free agency offers in a big way, opting to remain a Docker by inking a six-year extension to stay in purple and white until the end of the 2030 season.
Though originally contracted for next season, the Geelong Falcons product had long been linked with a move back home when meeting the markers for restricted free agency at the end of 2024.
Speaking within a club statement as the ink dried on his new deal, Darcy claimed he was energised for the future, claiming the club had the right stocks to make a positive mark going forward.
“It's a really exciting time for the footy Club, we've got some really talented players,” Darcy told Dockers Media.
“We just need to get stuck into it and I can't wait for the season to start. I've got full belief in our team, our list and what we're building and everything going forward.
“We had a bit of a disappointing year last season and we're not shying away from it.
"Everyone is on board that we need to be better, we need to improve and we need to improve quickly.
“We're trying to get the best out of each other and we're working hard every day to push each other, so it's really exciting.”
Freo list boss David Walls added securing Darcy's signature was a real boon for the club.
“Sean will turn 32 during 2030, so he's a Freo Docker for life,” Walls laid out.
“He is committed to helping lead this Club and we saw that with his trip to the US with coach Justin Longmuir and some members of the leadership group post-season.
“Sean was pick 37 in the 2016 Draft and that Draft class included Brennan Cox and Luke Ryan who are all key pillars and integral parts of our team.
“Sean's parents Greg and Ann-Maree – and the entire Darcy family - are also a huge part of the Freo family. They love the Club and are as invested in Fremantle's success as Sean is.”
Darcy has played 98 AFL games since joining the club ahead of the 2017 season and alongside former Demon Luke Jackson, has formed one of the league's most threatening young ruck duos.