Jarrad McVeigh signs one-year extension with Sydney Swans

Michael Di Lonardo

Jarrad McVeigh signs one-year extension with Sydney Swans image

Jarrad McVeigh is strapping up the boots for another season - and this one may be his last.

The Sydney veteran has agreed to a one-year extension to remain in the NSW capital for his 17th season in the AFL.

There had been chatter about a possible retirement, plus interest from Essendon and Gold Coast, however McVeigh has remained loyal in what will likely be his last ever contract.

MORE: Sydney Swans ruckman Sam Naismith signs three-year contract extension

“Jarrad has clearly been a highly valued member of our team for a long time now and it’s great to have him sign on for another season,” Swans head of football Tom Harley said.

“Jarrad’s been exceptional for us again this year, he’s an outstanding leader and for him to continue for another season is a great result for all.

“We look forward to seeing Jarrad continue to do what he does best during our upcoming finals campaign and for the 2019 season.”

The club also announced the re-signing of ruckman Sam Naismith earlier in the week, joining the likes of Aliir Aliir, Will Hayward, Ben Ronke, Ryley Stoddart, Joel Amartey and Matt Ling who have all agreed to new deals.

McVeigh is the club's only current 300-gamer and has carved out a highly successful career that has seen a 2012 premiership, a 2013 All Australian call-up and the club's best and fairest awards in 2008 and 2013.

His body showed signs of wear and tear this year after suffering a broken collarbone against Geelong in round 16, but a surprisingly speedy recovery saw him return in just three weeks after an expected six-week lay-off.

McVeigh's return almost helped the Swans clinch a top four berth, falling short at the final hurdle with a disappointing loss to Hawthorn in round 23.

Sydney are gearing up for an inter-city blockbuster against GWS next Saturday afternoon in the second elimination final.

 

Michael Di Lonardo

Michael Di Lonardo Photo