Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce Will Snelling will remain at The Hangar in 2020 after the 22-year-old signed a one-year deal on the Bombers’ rookie list.

After spending three years on Port Adelaide’s list, Snelling joined Essendon through the 2019 NAB AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft.

Snelling made his debut in the red and black in round 18 in his hometown of Adelaide against the Crows.

The midfielder went on to play four games for the Bombers this year including an impressive performance in the club’s final against West Coast.

Snelling said he was excited to continue his journey at Essendon.

“I am thrilled to sign a new deal with the Bombers and continue to live out my dream of playing football at the highest level,” Snelling said.

“My pathway hasn’t been a traditional one, so it’s exciting to see my hard work and drive for improvement rewarded with another opportunity.

“I’m looking forward to returning to the club in November and fully committing myself to developing my game further.”

Under the AFL Rules, as a Category A Rookie, Snelling will be eligible to play in the senior side without needing to be upgraded on to the senior list.

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said the opportunity to play on was well deserved by Snelling.

“Will has settled in seamlessly since arriving through the mid-season draft,” Dodoro said.

“His work ethic and dedication to the program have been impressive, earning him a spot in the senior side on four occasions including our final against the Eagles.

“We believe Will has made a significant impact in his short time on the list and look forward to seeing what he can achieve in 2020.”

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.