Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce James Gwilt has agreed to terms on a new deal.

The experienced and agile defender today recommitted with the Club until the end of 2016.

Gwilt believes the Bombers have the right dynamics to contend in 2016.

“It’s never easy starting at a new footy club, but I found the transition easier than expected with a lot of support from the club and the guys have been great welcoming me and my family,” Gwilt said.

“We’re a really tight defensive unit and that’s been a big factor behind why I’ve enjoyed my football this season.

“There are plenty of talented young guys coming through, we’ve proven we can compete with the best and I’m excited to get back out there after pre-season in 2016.”

The 29 year-old played 11 games this season averaging 18 disposals, 5 marks and 11 kicks per game before he was injured in Round 19 against GWS and sidelined for the remaining four games of the season.

Interim Senior Coach, Matthew Egan said Gwilt was a great role model as an experienced senior player for the young Bombers to learn from.

“James has become an important member of the Bombers defence this season and has built great relationships with both Michael Hurley as well as Cale Hooker while playing in the forward line.



“James has great flexibility having showcased his ability to play on both small and tall forwards and knowing what he is capable of has us really looking forward to his future next year.”

Recruitment and List Manager, Adrian Dodoro, said Gwilt would continue to play an important role in the Club’s senior list for the 2016 season.

“It is exciting that James has agreed to sign on with the club as we believe his experience is invaluable to our list. He is playing some very good football and we are confident he has a lot to offer our club in the year ahead."

James Gwilt was recruited to St Kilda with pick 63 in the 2004 National Draft playing 125 games from 2005 – 2014 and moved to Essendon in 2015, making his debut with the Club in Round 2, 2015 against Hawthorn at the MCG.