Essendon forward Jaiden Hunter has revealed he has returned home to Perth despite two home and away games remaining in the AFL season, flagging another operation he is set to undergo.
Hunter - who was taken in the 2023 Mid-Season Draft with Pick 9 - had an unfortunate start to his AFL career, with hot spot stress in his back sidelining him immediately before tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) earlier this year.
In the midst of the cruel injuries, the 22-year-old secured a one-year extension that is set to expire at the end of 2024.
The Perth product has farewelled the Bombers, taking to socials to thank the club for the opportunity.
"Unfortunately (I) had to have minor back surgery to alleviate a condition I was dealing with," Hunter's statement said.
"Time to rest up at homeย and have a big cuddle with the Daschunds for a while.โ
"I just want to thank Essendon for the opportunity, the experience and allowing me to have surgery at home to recover with my support network.
Update from Jaiden Hunter. pic.twitter.com/JUpldGWeDl
— Scooter (@ScooterMcNeice) August 14, 2024
โThank you to the supporters for being so welcoming and supportive of me during the last season and a half.
โHad almost no luck and a lot of frustration with my body so I'm taking a very small break from football to finish these two rehabs at my own pace and get myself fully right.
โI'll be back again playing next season even better than I was, I promise.โ
The club confirmed Hunter's departure, with Bombers GM of AFL Daniel McPherson advising the youngster that he won't receive a playing contract for 2025.
โJaiden has worked extremely hard during his time at Essendon but ultimately his body has let him down," McPherson said.
"We're very disappointed he didn't get a good run at it as he showed great potential in his time with us. He has been resilient through challenging times and remains very dedicated to being the best footballer he can be, we wish him the best for his future back in Perth.โ
Hunter was unable to fulfil his childhood dreams of playing AFL football but featured twice in Essendon's VFL side shortly after being drafted.
