The Western Bulldogs have announced the major re-signing of young tall Sam Darcy, who has penned a four-year contract extension to remain at the Kennel until the end of 2029.
Darcy was due to see his contract come to an end next year, with the exciting key forward making the decision to renew his deal prior to 2025.
โIt was a really easy decision for me in the end,โ Darcy said of the call in a club statement.
โThis Club means so much to me โ I've got a rich family history here. I grew up supporting the Bulldogs and I am very grateful to be living out my dreams at Mission Whitten Oval.โ
โI'm really confident in the direction we're heading and love coming into work every day with the boys as we continue to try and improve.
โI just want to keep building on the foundations I set up last year and put in a big pre-season to hopefully set myself up for success in 2025.โ
The 21-year-old enjoyed a breakout season this year, booting 38 goals to go with averages of 12.5 disposals, 4.9 marks and 7.76 contested possessions per game from his 21 appearances.
He would earn his maiden 22under22 selection to go with a Rising Star nomination, with Darcy a likely contender for the full award had he avoided a suspension.
โOnly three seasons into his career, Sam has shown plenty of exciting qualities as he navigates the early parts of his journey,โ the Western Bulldogs' acting football lead Sam Power said.
โHaving continuity this season allowed Sam to display his aerial capabilities, becoming one of the most challenging forwards to defend in the game, while maintaining his elite competitive edge every time he steps onto the field.
โSam has a deep family history within the Western Bulldogs and we're really pleased that he has committed until the end of 2029, showcasing his belief in the direction this Club is heading.
โHe's an important part of the Club's future with plenty of growth still remaining in his game.โ
Darcy, who joined the Dogs as the second overall pick in the 2021 AFL Draft as a father-son selection, has played 28 games for the club since debuting in 2022.
He is the son of club great Luke Darcy and grandson of former Footscray defender David Darcy.