MELBOURNE midfielder Jack Viney has signed a new deal with the club, which will see him pull on the red and blue until at least the end of 2025.
The 26-year-old, who was a restricted free agent at season’s end, put pen to paper on Tuesday, turning down offers from other clubs.
General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney said the decision spoke volumes about the vice-captain’s character.
“By signing a long-term deal, Jack has shown belief in his teammates, his coaches and the club, which is exciting for everyone,” he told Melbourne Media.
“Jack is a passionate Melbourne person and player, and has been since day one. He is a man of great integrity, who really drives standards among the playing group.
“At just 26, we think his best footy is still in front of him. We look forward to him building on his great contribution to the game, as a Demon.”
While there’s been much talk about his future in the red and blue, the much-loved Dee couldn’t part with the club he’s called home for the past eight seasons.
Viney has been an integral part of Melbourne’s list since debuting in 2013, winning a Best and Fairest Award in 2016 and co-captaining the club between 2017 and 2019.
He played 16 games in 2020, with his efforts earning him a third-place finish in last month’s Best and Fairest event.
The hard-at-it midfielder averaged 19.9 disposals, in what was another impressive season at Melbourne, and set the example for his teammates.
His attitude saw him voted as the most courageous by his peers, while his ferocity provided plenty of excitement for Demon fans.
Viney first joined Melbourne as a father-son draft selection in 2013. He has 135 senior games and 36 goals to his name.