Bombers star Maddy Prespakis signs four-year contract extension

Jackson Clark Published March 14, 2024 at 2.00pm (AWST)

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Maddy Prespakis has signed a four-year contract extension with Essendon. (Image: James Ross/AAP Photos)

Essendon AFLW star Maddy Prespakis has penned a new deal that will see her remain at the club until at least the end of the 2027 season.

The midfielder's four-year contract extension was announced by the club earlier in the week.

The Djadjawurrung woman said that it was 'super special' to sign an extension.

"It's not a hidden fact that I've grown up an Essendon supporter—my Nan used to bring us to Windy Hill, and I'd be running around getting as many player signatures as possible," Prespakis said.

"As a kid, I never dreamt of being an Essendon AFLW player, but now I'm in the shoes of one, and it's pretty special.

"I pinch myself every time I drive down the driveway at the Hangar and it's a surreal feeling to run out here (Windy Hill) for our home games – I just love every moment I get to wear the red and black."

The 23-year-old is one of the stars of the AFLW competition having already won four club best-and-fairest awards – three at her former team Carlton and one at the Bombers – plus earning selection in the All-Australian team on three occasions.

She won the AFLW Rising Star award in 2019 and followed it up by claiming the competition's highest individual honour, the AFLW best-and-fairest, the following season.

Prespakis was originally selected with pick three in the 2018 AFLW Draft and played 34 for Carlton before switching to Essendon in 2022 and has played in all 21 games for the Bombers since they joined the AFLW.

*Maddy Prespakis after booting a goal for the Bombers. (Image: AFL)*

The Bombers' AFLW List and Recruiting Manager, Georgia Harvey was excited to secure her star player on a long-term deal.

"To have a player of Maddy's calibre and capability commit to the club on a four-year deal is not only a fantastic reflection of Maddy's ability but also the direction the AFLW program is heading in," Harvey said.

"Maddy has grown significantly over the past two years, evidenced by her elevation into our leadership group ahead of the 2023 season, and she continues to be driven and committed to developing her own game.

"A Bomber through and through, Maddy has immense passion and pride for the Essendon Football Club. We look forward to seeing what she can achieve over the next four years."