Dogs' No. 1 pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan will stay at the kennel for another two years after extending his contract until the end of 2024.
Ugle-Hagan told the Western Bulldogs it "doesnโt feel real (playing AFL)" and he is "still getting used to the team around [him]."
"You watch these guys on TV and now youโre playing with them," Ugle-Hagan said.
โItโs an unreal moment and Iโm excited to re-sign for another two years.โ
Marra is just getting started โ
Get his reaction to signing on at the Kennel. pic.twitter.com/7cJzOEvUuC
— Western Bulldogs (@westernbulldogs) August 5, 2021
The highly-skilled and athletic key-forward had a slower start to his AFL career, missing out on senior selection until Round 17, however has gone on to play three more games with the Dogs, kicking six goals in the process.
The 19-year-old former Oakleigh Charger has often been compared toย Swans superstar Lance Franklin due to his impressive 24 goals from nine games in theย NAB league.
The young star widely tipped to go number one in the AFL draft isn't shying away from comparisons to Buddy Franklin. Jamarra Ugle-Hagan will end up at the Western Bulldogs, but the Adelaide Crows could now make them pay a hefty price. @SeanSowerby7 #7AFL #7NEWS pic.twitter.com/c2DApwEuWv
— 7NEWS Melbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) December 2, 2020
General Manager of List Management and Football Projects Sam Power saidย they have "been really pleased with Jamarraโs development over the course of the seasonโ and were "excited to have him locked in until the end of 2024."
โJamarra has shown plenty of encouraging signs at AFL level. His athleticism, agility and marking ability have been on display, and heโs made the most of his opportunities in front of goal," he said.
Ugle-Hagan did not play any football during his draft year and said "it was a massive step up."
The young Dog had to work on his fitness and develop his game style at VFL level before breaking into the senior side.
โItโs a good thing that I played VFL, because I know Iโve got room to improve. Obviously 'Bevo' knew what he was doing and put me in the twos for a whileโฆ Iโve developed, got better and now Iโm playing (AFL) which is good,โ Ugle-Hagan said.
Ugle-Hagan will line-up for the Bulldogs on Sunday as the face the Bombers at Marvel Stadium in a bid to extend their streak atop the ladder.
