Exciting winger Sophie Van De Heuvel has signed a four-year deal to stay with Essendon until at least the end of the 2027 season.
 
The 23-year-old’s signature is the second in recent days to commit to the Bombers long-term, following ruck Stephanie Wales, who penned a new deal yesterday.
 
As a foundation Bomber, Van De Heuvel is excited to contribute to the playing list’s continued growth in 2024 and beyond.
 
“I find it so special to play for Essendon because of my connections with my teammates and coaches over the past two years. Everything about Essendon is super special, and I can’t wait to be here for another four years,” Van De Heuvel said.
 
“It’s extremely special to sign on with the club. I’ve looked forward to it for a while now, and having grown up barracking for Essendon to sign on is extremely exciting.
 
“After last season, there was so much growth and development, so coming into 2024, we are all eager to do well. I’m excited to see where we can go this season and into the future.”

02:06

Van De Heuvel pens deal

Sophie Van De Heuvel stays a Bomber after re-signing into 2027.


 
Van De Heuvel has been one of the Dons’ biggest improvers since joining the club ahead of its inaugural AFLW season in 2022, utilised in different roles across half-back and the wing to strong effect.
 
After averaging a career-high 13 disposals per game in 2023, Van De Heuvel capped off her season by securing a second consecutive top-ten finish in the club’s best and fairest due to reward for her importance to the side.
 
Van De Heuvel’s form early in the season was integral to Essendon’s strong start. She collected 17 disposals in each of the opening two rounds and played a vital role in the round six victory over her former side, Geelong, with 19 touches.

01:54

Highlights | Vandy notches up 50 games

Watch some of Sophie Van de Heuvel's best moments throughout her career ahead of her 50th game this weekend.


 
The winger ticked off a major milestone by reaching her 50th AFLW career game in round 10, before featuring in the Bombers’ inaugural finals appearance against the Cats the following week.
 
Essendon AFLW List and Recruiting Manager Georgia Harvey said the club was thrilled to have Van De Heuvel in the red and black for at least four more years.
 
“Since joining the club in our inaugural year, Sophie has accelerated her development and has been an important part of what we are building here at the Bombers,” Harvey said.
 
“At only 23 and with 51 AFLW games to her name, Sophie’s football knowledge and experience is influential to our side, particularly across the wing and half-back. We can’t wait to see where Sophie takes her football over the coming years.”