Western Bulldogs star Aaron Naughton has inked a staggering eight-year extension that will see him remain at Whitten Oval until the end of 2032.
The astonishing move will see the 23-year-old key forward play for another nine seasons with the Bulldogs, making him the longest tenured player in the AFL.
‘It’s a special moment for me to sign, particularly for my family,’ Naughton said.
‘To sign a long contract and to be here to stay, especially for my teammates as well, I want them to know I am in it with them together.
‘To play alongside these guys for the years to come is really exciting.
‘When you get drafted by this club they make you feel so welcome, not only myself, but the whole family back in WA, it’s fantastic.
‘You build strong connections with all your teammates and I have some of my best mates here.
‘I am bullish on this group and what we can achieve in the years to come. It is a lot of hard work and I know this group is willing to put in every day.’
The market for players of his calibre indicates the deal is approaching $10million in total by the time another collective bargaining agreement rise is accounted for.
By Naughton’s standards he had a quiet season in 2023, but he still kicked 44 goals and is now entering his prime years as an AFL player.
He will be focused on leading the Dogs back to the finals in 2024, with coach Luke Beveridge also under some pressure to improve results after the club’s disappointing season.
Bulldogs recruitment boss Sam Power was excited about the move and what it means for the future of the club.
‘Aaron is an outstanding player and an exceptional person and there is no doubt this is an exciting day for the club and our members and fans,’ Power said.
‘We love what Aaron brings to this football club each and every day, so it’s fantastic that we’ve been able to agree on a long-term contract extension prior to the start of 2024.
‘Aaron’s re-signing is another strong showing of confidence in the club’s long-term ambitions and culture.
‘Aaron continues to be a vital leader amongst the group, setting the benchmark on and off the field as the club looks to climb back up the ladder.
‘We see Aaron as a huge part of the Bulldogs’ future, being only 23 years of age, and we are delighted our supporters can watch him run out for years to come.’
