Collingwood ruckman Brodie Grundy has turned his back on free agency to re-sign with the AFL club for seven years.
Grundy would have become a free agent at the end of the 2020 season and had been linked to a return to his home state of South Australia but instead committed to the Magpies until the end of 2027.
"Clearly, at this age and point in my career, it was an important decision," Grundy said.
"I took my time to consider all of the things that mean the most to me - my football, my ambitions, my life beyond the game, my family, friends, team-mates and the football club - and settled on what I believe is best for all of those relationships, needs and passions."
A two-time Australian and dual Copeland Trophy winner, Grundy has played 132 games for the Magpies since he was drafted at Pick 18 in the 2012 AFL Draft.
Grundy has made his mark with his ability to have an impact both at stoppages and around the ground.
In 2019 alone he averaged 21.3 disposals, 42.6 hitouts and 6.1 clearances per game.
"Brodie is clearly a very, very good footballer who is important to Collingwood's future," Magpies list manager Ned Guy said.
"Brodie is physical in the way he plays the game. He prepares exceptionally well which explains, in part, his durability. He wants to lead, wants to improve, wants to set an example and dominate. He is rarely content with his game.
"We love the fact that he sees so much scope for improvement and is determined to be as good as he can possibly be even though, at 25 years of age, he is already an influential player on the field and, increasingly, in the change room.
"If you look at Brodie's performances, he is on an upswing. It will be fascinating, and a joy, to see Brodie's future unfold."
Australian Associated Press
