Melbourne's forward line has received a welcome boon following the news that youngster Jacob van Rooyen has signed a long-term deal to remain a Redleg.
The Western Australian began life in red and blue after being drafted by the Demons with the 19th pick of the 2021 AFL Draft.
Since crossing the Nullarbor, the 21-year-old has made an impression ahead of the ball, booting 36 goals in his 26 senior appearances.
While van Rooyen was contracted at Gosch's Paddock beyond the end of the 2024 season, AFL Media's Cal Twomey reported on Tuesday that the rising key forward had inked a four-year extension, keeping him as part of the Demons' legion until the cessation of 2029.
The new deal is more than just cause for celebration for Demons fans, with van Rooyen also turning 21 on Tuesday.
The Claremont product is now tied to the club long-term, joining the likes of Kysaiah Picket (2027), Jake Lever (2028), Christian Petracca (2029) and Clayton Oliver (2030) in committing themselves to the cause.
van Rooyen and the Redlegs will next run out Wednesday, April 24 when they do battle with Richmond at the MCG in the now-annual Anzac Eve fixture.
