Off the back of an impressive debut season in the red sash, Patrick Ambrose has committed to the club for a further two years.
The tough young forward’s new deal will see him remain at the True Value Solar Centre until at least the end of the 2016 season.
Three days out from his twenty-third birthday, Ambrose said the new deal was the perfect present.
“It’s been a dream come true to play for the Essendon footy club,” Ambrose said.
“I’m extremely grateful the club took a chance on me, I came into AFL a little later than most and I want to make the most of my opportunity and repay the faith they’ve shown in me.”
“I came in with the goal of playing one game this season, I was lucky Bomber gave me a chance in Round one, and from there I’ve worked hard to contribute and stay in the team.”
Ambrose took less than a quarter of football to mark his arrival.
His courage to run back into a heavy contest in the season opener against North Melbourne not only earned him the respect of his teammates, but his coach Mark Thompson.
“Patty has played nearly every game this season, which is a fair indication of how he’s regarded by the coaching team and the leadership group,” Thompson said.
“He’s tough, driven and has shown plenty of potential in his first season of football. He has the hunger to carve out a decent career.”
Taken in the Rookie Draft, the number 47 has played in ten of the club’s twelve wins this season.
His forward pressure, speed and contested ball has seen him become an integral member of the forward line.
General Manager of Football Operations Rob Kerr said Ambrose was among a number of promising baby Bombers to debut this season.
“Patrick has had a consistent debut season and we have no doubt he can develop into an important part of the club’s playing group moving forward,” Kerr said.
“List Manager Adrian Dodoro, the recruiting team and the development coaches should be commended on their ability to attract and develop promising young talent like Patty Ambrose.”
Recruited via the club’s VFL side, Ambrose has played 15 games and booted 12 goals to date this season.
