Promising midfielder/defender Connor Blakely has agreed to terms for a three-year contract extension with Fremantle.
The deal will see the 23-year-old in the purple until at least the end of the 2022 season.
Hailing from Bunbury, Blakely joined Fremantle in the 2014 National Draft at pick no.34.
He went on to make his debut in round 23, 2015 against Port Adelaide.
Blakely has played 56 games for Fremantle from his five seasons to date in a mix of midfield and half-back roles.
He had a breakout start to the 2018 season, collecting 30 disposals on four or more occasions before a knee injury ended his season.
Blakely has played every game since his return from a hamstring injury in round nine, averaging 21 disposals per game.
Fremantle list manager Mark Micallef said that Blakely has been growing as a footballer and a leader.
“Connor is someone who we see developing as an emerging leader at the club,” Micallef said.
“We’re excited about what he can deliver for the club now and in the future.”
Micallef said that the club was pleased with how Blakely bounced back from a tough run with injuries.
He added that Blakely’s versatility would be an asset to Freo going forward.
“Connor’s size, athleticism and running ability, as well his ability to play half back and also develop as an inside midfielder - we see that as a really strong component to our mix,” Micallef said.
“Unfortunately he sustained those injuries over the past 12 months, but his rehab and his approach to his recovery was fantastic.
“He always came in and did the extra work, he got his body 100 per cent right and you can see that with his performance right now.
“We’re sure he’ll be a very exciting player for Fremantle for a long period of time.”
