Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce, Ben Howlett, will return to the Bombers next season.

The 27-year old has agreed to a new one year deal that will see him ‘Back In’ for the 2017 season.

Howlett said the strong bond with his teammates had a profound impact on his decision.

“From what I’ve witnessed and my discussions with Woosha it’s evident the team and Club is forging something really exciting, and I’m extremely motivated to be a part of this,” Howlett said.

“With my first child on the way I took the necessary time to determine what was best for my career and my family. In the end it was my strong bond with my teammates that made the decision easy.

“I would like to say a massive thank-you to the Essendon members and supporters for their loyalty and ongoing support this season. They’ve not only rallied around me but my teammates which has been incredible.”

Chief Executive Officer, Xavier Campbell, said Howlett’s commitment was a significant announcement ahead of the Club’s final game of the season.

“Ben’s decision to recommit to the Club next season is wonderful news for the entire Essendon family,” Campbell said.

“In the end Ben felt the team and Club have a really bright future and that he couldn’t envisage playing anywhere other than alongside his close mates at Essendon.

“Ben is genuinely excited about re-igniting his career under John next season and is driven to help the Club achieve its vision of achieving success in the coming seasons.”

With six seasons and 117 games under his belt, Howlett not only brings valuable experience but a hard edge.

Senior Coach, John Worsfold, said he loves the way Howlett goes about his footy.

“We are really pleased Ben wants to continue playing his footy here. He’s excited about the culture we are building and he can’t wait to get in and start working hard for next season, which is brilliant,” Worsfold said.

“We’re really excited about where we are heading as a Club and to have Ben part of this journey next year is fantastic.

“Ben is the ultimate professional and terrific on-field leader. He’s a tough competitor, he attacks the footy with aggression and his pressure around the ground is the standard we want all our players to emulate.”

List and Recruiting Manager, Adrian Dodoro, said Howlett would be a fantastic mentor to the Club’s young players.

“Ben is a wonderful role model for our young players, he’s highly respected for his strong work ethic and professionalism around the Club,” Dodoro said.

“We recruited Ben as a mature age rookie, and since stepping foot inside the Club he’s worked his backside off to carve out a promising career. He’s tough, driven and his teammates love playing alongside him.

“Ben’s decision to remain a Bomber is another vote of confidence in the football program and strong culture John is building at Essendon.”

Ben Howlett joins Michael Hurley, Brent Stanton, Tom Bellchambers, Dyson Heppell, David Myers, Cale Hooker, Travis Colyer and Heath Hocking as the ninth Bomber to recommit to the Club.

To register for a 2017 membership click here.