Essendon VFL is pleased to announce that Sam Tagliabue is Back In for the 2015 season.

Tagliabue was unlucky to miss out on AFL selection this season after a strong performance at this year’s state screening. However, the 206cm ruckman still has his sights firmly set on achieving his AFL dream.

“We’re extremely happy to have Sam join us again for the upcoming season,” said VFL Operations Manager Matthew Little.

“Obviously it would have been great for him to be drafted at an AFL level, but he now has the chance to develop and continue to work on his game and try again next year.”

Tagliabue has been an essential part of the Essendon VFL team since joining in 2012.

Overcoming an injury interrupted 2013 season, Tagliabue returned to his impressive form this year playing 15 games and being awarded the club’s best first year player.

“It was great to see Sam get back out on the field and be able to show exactly why he is such a valued member of this team,” said Little.

“We look forward to working with him again in the 2015 season and we’re sure that his tireless efforts on and off the field will be rewarded.”

Tagliabue is the 13thsigning for Essendon VFL and joins other recent re-signings including Kyle Hardingham, James Polkinghorne and Aaron Heppell.