MELBOURNE has locked in three Demons, with Tom Sparrow, Harry Petty and Joel Smith all inking new deals.
The trio put pen to paper this week, in a move that will see Smith wear the red and blue until at least the end of next season, and Sparrow and Petty into 2022.
General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney said the signings were reflective of the trio’s growth this season.
“Tom and Joel have shown great development this year in their roles and whilst Harry had a frustrating season missing with a groin injury, we have already seen the impact the he can have at both ends of the ground,” he told Melbourne Media.
Sparrow earns his fresh deal after some impressive performances this year.
In what was his second AFL season, the 20-year-old played five games for the Dees and looked to be finding his groove, before a collarbone injury in Round 13 ruled him out.
The gutsy midfielder, who was taken at pick No.27 of the 2018 National Draft, never gives up and is an exciting prospect for Dees fans to follow.
Petty is another one to keep an eye on.
The 20-year-old, who was struck down with that groin injury earlier this year, wasn’t able to pull on the red and blue in 2020, but showed glimpses of what he’s capable of in 2019.
Originally drafted as a defender, Petty mixed between roles last year and finished with six goals in 10 games.
With a full pre-season under his belt, he will be hopeful of having a big impact in his fourth year at the club.
An injury-free run will also be of great benefit to Smith.
Despite facing his fair share of setbacks, the 24-year-old strung some consistent games together in the back half of this season, featuring seven times overall.
Making his debut in 2017, the former basketballer adds versatility and athleticism to the Demons’ list and will be eager to execute his role again in 2021.