Essendon sign ex-Fremantle ruckman Zac Clarke under AFL’s new pre-season supplemental rules
Kate Salemme, Herald Sun
an hour ago
Subscriber only
Essendon has officially signed ex-Fremantle ruckman Zac Clarke.
Clarke has signed a one-year deal with the Bombers under the AFL’s new pre-season supplemental period that allows clubs to sign players who have previously nominated for the national draft or been on an AFL list, as rookies.
The former Docker, who was delisted at the end of 2017 after 101 games in nine seasons, will add much-needed ruck depth behind Tom Bellchambers at Essendon following the retirement of Matthew Leuenberger.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to play with a club like Essendon and thank them for their belief in me as a player,” Clarke said.
Ex-Docker Zac Clarke has joined Essendon.
“I grew up in Melbourne, so it’s great to be moving back home after 10 years away.
“I’m keen to hit the ground running over the pre-season and want to prepare as best as I can and learn the Bombers’ exciting game style as much as possible from the playing group and coaches.
“I’m looking forward to forming some genuine connections within the club and can’t wait to get stuck into it from Monday onwards.”
Clarke played for WAFL club Subiaco this year and had an impressive season, averaging 39 hit outs, 15.7 disposals and a goal per game.
He also played a starring role in Subiaco’s Grand Final victory with 50 hit outs, 17 disposals, seven marks and a goal.
Clarke will add much-needed ruck depth at Essendon. Picture: Daniel Wilkins
The signing of the 28-year-old ruckman completes a big off-season for the Bombers following the addition of gun midfielder Dylan Shiel.
“Zac had a terrific year at Subiaco in the WAFL this year, where he featured in all 24 games and ultimately played in a premiership,” Essendon list boss Adrian Dodoro said.
“We feel he has a lot to offer as an experienced ruckman who also has the ability to push forward if needed.
“Zac will be able to give us some additional ruck depth and we’re hopeful he can push for senior selection early next season.”
Shane Mumford (GWS), Mav Weller (Richmond), Corey Wagner (Melbourne) and Keegan Brooksby (West Coast) will also sign with clubs via the new pre-season supplementary rules.
Kate Salemme, Herald Sun
an hour ago
Subscriber only
Essendon has officially signed ex-Fremantle ruckman Zac Clarke.
Clarke has signed a one-year deal with the Bombers under the AFL’s new pre-season supplemental period that allows clubs to sign players who have previously nominated for the national draft or been on an AFL list, as rookies.
The former Docker, who was delisted at the end of 2017 after 101 games in nine seasons, will add much-needed ruck depth behind Tom Bellchambers at Essendon following the retirement of Matthew Leuenberger.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to play with a club like Essendon and thank them for their belief in me as a player,” Clarke said.
Ex-Docker Zac Clarke has joined Essendon.
“I grew up in Melbourne, so it’s great to be moving back home after 10 years away.
“I’m keen to hit the ground running over the pre-season and want to prepare as best as I can and learn the Bombers’ exciting game style as much as possible from the playing group and coaches.
“I’m looking forward to forming some genuine connections within the club and can’t wait to get stuck into it from Monday onwards.”
Clarke played for WAFL club Subiaco this year and had an impressive season, averaging 39 hit outs, 15.7 disposals and a goal per game.
He also played a starring role in Subiaco’s Grand Final victory with 50 hit outs, 17 disposals, seven marks and a goal.
The signing of the 28-year-old ruckman completes a big off-season for the Bombers following the addition of gun midfielder Dylan Shiel.
“Zac had a terrific year at Subiaco in the WAFL this year, where he featured in all 24 games and ultimately played in a premiership,” Essendon list boss Adrian Dodoro said.
“We feel he has a lot to offer as an experienced ruckman who also has the ability to push forward if needed.
“Zac will be able to give us some additional ruck depth and we’re hopeful he can push for senior selection early next season.”
Shane Mumford (GWS), Mav Weller (Richmond), Corey Wagner (Melbourne) and Keegan Brooksby (West Coast) will also sign with clubs via the new pre-season supplementary rules.
