Zach Merrett keeps Essendon ties after Hawthorn trade
The former Bombers captain says he remains close to players, staff and volunteers after leaving the club where he spent 13 years.
Hawthorn has acquired Zach Merrett from Essendon for draft picks No.15 and No.25 and a second-round selection in 2028, with the 31-year-old saying his departure has not damaged relationships at his former club.
Speaking at Caulfield Racecourse, Merrett said he remained in Essendon’s players’ group chat. He also described embracing Sam Durham when they met on the night the trade was completed.
Merrett said his connections extended beyond teammates to staff and volunteers. He had received emotional messages from people he had known during his 13 years at Essendon and expected those friendships to outlast his playing career.
Before leaving, he spoke individually with several players and sent a message to the group. Merrett said he saw considerable talent among Essendon’s younger players and praised Andy McGrath’s leadership.
Essendon rejected Merrett’s trade request last year, before agreeing to his renewed request this month. He leaves with seven best and fairest awards from 274 games, having served as captain from 2023 to 2025.
