Patience and persistence have paid off for Essendon midfielder Darcy Parish. 

Ahead of his 150th career game against Collingwood on Friday night, it’s worth remembering the journey that has seen Parish cement himself as a star of the competition. 

Since being taken by the Bombers with pick five in the 2015 national draft, Parish has grown into one of the league’s premier ball winners, averaging nearly 31 disposals per game across his last three seasons combined. 

Parish quickly endeared himself to the Dons faithful, notching a rising star nomination and booting a clutch goal to secure a famous victory over the Dees in just game number two.

Honing his craft as a high half-forward over the following few seasons, Parish maintained a solid level of consistency, but still held a desire to break into the midfield mix and showcase the full extent of his talent.  

When injuries opened up an opportunity for Parish in round three of the 2021 season, a then career-high 34 disposals against the Saints set up a stunning breakout season for the Dons’ number three. 

Dominant performances in marquee fixtures against Collingwood and Richmond saw Parish claim ANZAC Medal and Yiooken Award honours, breaking the club record for disposals in a game (44) in the Dreamtime in Perth match.

Claiming a maiden All Australian jacket and runner-up in the 2021 Crichton Medal, Parish battled through a niggling calf injury in 2022 but continued to provide impact in the engine room, including another 44-disposal effort on ANZAC Day.  

Returning to full fitness in the back half of 2023, Parish has become an important leader alongside Captain Zach Merrett for the Bombers’ young midfield brigade. 

The Bombers’ clash with the Pies on Friday marks the club’s Member Thank You Round.