Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli has extended his stay with the club, signing a new four-year contract. This deal locks him in through the 2029 season. Bulldogs supporters no longer have to fret, Bulldogs fans! Those memos of understanding negotiated over the last few weeks — which had some folks fretting — are completed.
Bontempelli, who only recently celebrated his 250th game milestone, is no doubt a landmark player in the club’s origin story. His new contract guarantees his long-term future with the Western Bulldogs. This deal puts him in line to pursue Brad Johnson’s team record of 364 games by the conclusion of this deal. This prospect should have all Bulldogs fans and players salivating, as Bontempelli proves time and time again how invested he is to the Western Bulldogs.
As Bontempelli took up the role of skipper in 2020, he has shown exceptional leadership. As a result, he has won three of his six best and fairest awards while serving as captain. As a 2016 premiership player and longtime stellar on-field performer, he’s long been the toast of Tiger Town. This excellence has only continued to add to his legacy at the ‘Dawgs.
Still, Bontempelli only just turned 30 in November. Throughout the negotiation process, he has never missed an opportunity to thank the club and its supporters. His old contract was due to expire at the end of this season. This unexpected scenario led to numerous spirited negotiations between the two camps as the season wore on. On both sides, the result of these negotiations is considered a big win for Bontempelli and the Western Bulldogs.
The new agreement will serve as the last long term deal of Bontempelli’s AFL career. Still, this milestone represents a promising turning point for both him and the club. Bontempelli has vast experience and success to offer the team. Realistically, his ongoing development will be key for the Bulldogs as they try to make long-term runs at more success.
