Last year. I can’t remember which player it was, but there was never an official announcement. I had to update the previous thread with confirmation from blitzers. In fact, I don’t think it was just one player we were unclear on.
I’ve got a feeling either Paul Cousins or Catherine Leto had to confirm what the actual status was.
On McNiece, I don’t think there was any formal announcement. If he wasn’t a Cat A rookie (and given when Gleeson was put on the LTI, that is possible), it means we only had 3 Cat A rookies last year. I find that slightly hard to believe.
Edit: oops, HAP had already pretty much said this.
To be fair, this may have been a switch by the club once Leuy chose to resign. Bags may be effectively taking the senior list spot he was going to have.
Goddard (Delist/Retire)
Leuenberger (Retire)
J.Merrett (Delist)
Green (Delist)
Colyer (Freo)
Dea is the only senior listed player without a contract for 2019. We have 3 draft picks allocated to us in the ND. We only need to cut Dea if we have an eye on a Delisted Free Agent, otherwise he could well stay another season and we take the 3 ND picks.
We have made the final change to our list, ahead of the upcoming NAB AFL National Draft.
Matt Dea has been advised he will not be offered a playing contract in 2019.
Dea began his career at Richmond where he played 31 games before being recruited to Essendon in 2016. The defender played 39 games in the red and black during his three seasons at the Club.
GM Football, Dan Richardson, thanked Dea for his contribution to the Bombers throughout his time at The Hangar.
“Matt is a quality person and is the ultimate professional, both on and off the field.” Richardson said.
“Even while he was trying to cement his spot in the team, he was prepared to support the younger guys that were looking for the senior opportunity as well, which speaks volumes of his character.
“This time of year is never easy and unfortunately after discussions with Matt, we were unable to offer him a contract.
“On behalf of the Club, I want to thank Matt for his hard work and efforts during his time at The Hangar and wish him all the best with his future endeavours.”
I’m gutted for Matty because he’s a genuinely tough player who did his job every time he Donned the Sash. Not surprised given the amount of half-back/3rd tall defensive options at the club. Thanks for everything Matt, were there when the times were toughest in 2016.
This move points out to the fact that we must be looking at a Delisted Free Agent…
Yeah, ripping few years Matt Dea, thanks heaps. One more year and he would be taking a spot a couple of our younger and ready blokes should be duking it out for. Tempting to keep a proven older head on but the right, and courageous move.
