AFL 2021: Melbourne forward Sam Weideman signs new contract

Melbourne forward Sam Weideman has signed a two-year contract extension in the days leading up to this year’s AFL Grand Final.

The 24-year-old Demon has struggled to break into the senior side this year and had been linked with moves to North Melbourne and the Gold Coast Suns.

However, on Thursday Weideman shunned AFL rivals and recommitted to Melbourne.

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“I’m rapt to be able to stay at the club and to hopefully be a part of a successful future is huge for me,” he said.

“I love the boys, I love the club and it’s a great place to be.”

Selected with pick nine of the 2015 national draft, Weideman has played 49 games for the Demons since making his AFL debut in 2016.

Simon Goodwin has favoured Tom McDonald, Luke Jackson and Ben Brown as key forwards this season, limiting Weideman to just five senior appearances.

Even so, Melbourne list manager Tim Lamb said the club was pleased to have retained Weideman’s services.

“We are excited that Sam has committed to the club for the next two seasons. While at times this year has been frustrating for him personally, Sam has not wavered in his attitude and application,” he said.

“He is a terrific young man who is much loved and respected by everyone at the club.

“His talent is undoubted and at only 24 years of age, we are really confident that his best football is ahead of him.”

While Brown and McDonald look set to keep him out of the side for grand final day, Weideman said the lead-up to this year’s decider had nonetheless been a highlight of his young career.

“The last two weeks have been some of the more enjoyable I’ve had in footy and to be able to be part of a grand final build up has been a great experience,” he said.