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One of AFL football's fairytale stories will continue in to 2022, with Bombers forward Alec Waterman signing a one year contract extension on Wednesday.
The 24 year old, son of premiership Eagle Chris Waterman and older brother of Eagles utility Jake was initially signed as a Supplemental Selection Player (SPP) in March, having so far played six games for nine goals in the red and black.
He kicked the match sealing goal against his former club West Coast in round 10, having being originally drafted to the club in 2014 as a father son selection.
Waterman was struck down by illness in his time at the Eagles, delisted without playing a senior game following the 2016 season.
After overcoming the illness he returned to football in 2018, starring for Claremont last season with 26 goals in 10 games, kicking three goals in his side's four point Grand Final loss to South Fremantle.
Having debuted in round 3 at AFL level against St Kilda, Waterman has featured in each of the past three matches for Essendon, kicking multiple goals in two of those clashes either side of his late cameo against the Eagles.
Waterman has signed a one year deal for 2022, saying he was delighted to remain at the Bombers.
“This club took a chance on me earlier this year, and I want to repay the faith they’ve shown in me,” he said.
“Since the moment I stepped in the door I was made to feel welcome, and I’ve loved the environment under ‘Truck’ (Ben Rutten) and what this playing group is building towards.
“I want to keep learning and building my game to contribute in taking this group forward over the next couple of years. I’m stoked to be a part of such a great footy club who has a bright future.”
Essendon have returned to Victoria after their fortnight in Perth, their next meeting against Hawthorn set for the MCG subject to Melbourne's lockdown restrictions.
IMAGE: The West Australian.