Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce the recruitment of Hawthorn premiership player, Jonathan Simpkin, for the 2016 season.

The 28 year-old was granted permission to train with the Club last week, and officially joins the Bombers after agreeing to terms today.

Simpkin joins Ryan Crowley and James Kelly as the third player recruited to the Club.

General Manager – Football Operations, Rob Kerr, said Simpkin will add some much needed experience to the midfield.

“We’re pleased to officially announce Jonathan will play for the Essendon Football Club for the 2016 season,” Kerr said.

“Jonathan still has the hunger to perform at the highest level, he brings premiership experience and will provide us with depth through the midfield.

“Off the field we identified Jonathan as a person who aligned well with our team vision and culture, and he’s a player who we feel can also help develop our young playing list this season.”

Simpkin was drafted as a mature age recruit in the 2011 Rookie Draft. He played 37 senior games with Geelong and Hawthorn over four seasons.

Simpkin is a member of Hawthorn’s 2013 AFL Premiership side, and is a multiple Premiership and Best and Fairest winner at VFL level with Box Hill and Geelong.