Jacob van Rooyen has resisted the lure of home to sign a four-year contract extension at Melbourne that ties him to the club until 2029.
Already contracted until 2025, van Rooyen – who hails from Perth and played his junior footy with Claremont – has recommitted to the Demons in a major show of faith from both parties.
Turning 21 on Tuesday, van Rooyen has 26 games of AFL experience after being taken with a first round pick in the 2021 National Draft.
The Demons were thrilled to announce the contract extension.
“To have Jacob commit to the club for an additional four years is incredibly exciting,” Melbourne list boss Tim Lamb said in a club statement.
“Jacob has applied himself terrifically since arriving at the club, and we are continually impressed by his attitude and eagerness to learn.
“He is a much-loved character, both within the club and among our members and supporters, and at just 21 years old, has an exciting future ahead.
“We have seen the impact Jacob can have at AFL level, and we look forward to hearing the ‘Roo’ chant around the MCG for many more years to come.”
The key forward has kicked 36 goals in his time and remains Melbourne’s most prominent tall target inside 50, sharing the space with renowned goal kicker Bayley Fritsch.
van Rooyen was last year awarded the club’s best young player and the best and fairest.
