Ruckman Tim English has resisted the lure of free agency and a return to Western Australia by signing a new five-year contract with the Western Bulldogs.
One of the most sought-after out-of-contract players, English has committed to staying at the Whitten Oval until at least the end of 2029. Originally from WA, the 27-year-old found his decision easier after his partner, Rudi Ellis, moved to Victoria to play netball for the Melbourne Vixens.
English received a lucrative long-term offer from West Coast to be a key player in the Eagles’ rebuild, but ultimately chose to remain with the Bulldogs.
“It’s exciting for Rudi and me – I love life in Melbourne,” English said. “I’m really enjoying it at the club, and I’ve got some great mates here – it’s my eighth season now, and I’ve developed strong friendships over that time.
“There are so many different factors that go into a decision, but I really want to win a premiership, and that’s the ultimate goal for me at a football club. I feel like we have the opportunity to do that here, and that would be the best way to give back to the club. As a group, we’re capable, and everyone is putting in the work to get better and achieve that.”
English, who was named All-Australian for the first time last year, has been a key part of the Bulldogs’ finals push this season. He has played 129 games for the club since debuting in 2017.
“As the reigning All-Australian ruckman, Tim has been critical in our club’s strong performances throughout the year, regularly impacting games with his athleticism,” Bulldogs list boss Sam Power said. “His ability to get involved around the ground and use the ball as a ruckman has been a valuable asset to our side, underlining him as one of the most damaging big men in the competition.
“We still firmly believe Tim’s best football is ahead of him at 27, with a five-year extension highlighting his faith in our program, staff, and players moving forward.”
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