The Bombers are delighted to welcome Tex Wanganeen and Nic Martin as signings under the Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period (SSP).

After being invited to train with the Bombers since December and January respectively, Wanganeen and Martin will be listed on the club’s Rookie A list for the 2022 season.

Wanganeen, son of Essendon champion Gavin, joins the red and black from the James Hird Academy – the club’s junior development program that aims to identify, attract and nurture young players from non-traditional AFL regions, international zones and potential father-son draft avenues.

Martin chased his AFL dream relocating to Melbourne after being scouted from WAFL side Subiaco, with the 20-year-old impressing with his running capacity, football smarts and goalkicking ability.

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said the club was thrilled to welcome Wanganeen and Martin to the list.

“Both Tex and Nick have earned the opportunity to fill the remaining spots on our list and we’re thrilled to have secured their services through the SSP,” Dodoro said.

“Despite a COVID-impacted two years at Xavier College plying his trade on the football field, Tex has impressed with his natural athleticism and pace, and he was able to showcase that in an intraclub match at the NEC Hangar last week.

“Tex is a product of our James Hird Academy and it is a credit to our wider list management team and the program’s purpose to continue aiding the development of these young players.

“In his short time with the club, Nick has displayed hunger, professionalism and dedication to take his game to another level and seize the opportunity in front of him.

“With Nick’s experience and natural goalkicking abilities, we see him evolving into a high half-forward/wing position which will complement our existing forward line.”

“Both Tex and Nick’s signings are fantastic stories in their own right, so we’re looking forward to seeing both men continue to improve in 2022.”

After a blistering career with the Bombers across 127 of his 300 AFL games, Wanganeen senior will be formally elevated to Legend status at the Essendon Football Club’s Hall of Fame event at the Melbourne Showgrounds on Thursday night.