Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce Heath Hocking will return to the Bombers next season.

The senior leader has agreed to a contract extension that will see him ‘Don the Sash’ again in 2017.

Hocking said his love and passion for the Club has not wavered.

“I grew up supporting this great Club and I’m an Essendon person through and through, and nothing could sway my passion for the football Club,” Hocking said.

“I have a strong belief in the direction of the Club, and I have no doubt once we move past the challenges of this season we will be well placed to achieve success.

“I hope the other boys feel the same way. It would be great to see them return to the Club so we can continue on this journey we started together.”

Chief Executive Officer, Xavier Campbell, said this was great news for the Essendon family.

“Heath Hocking is a fantastic Club person and I know his decision to return for the 2017 season will put a smile on the members and supporters faces,” Campbell said.

“Heath epitomises what it means to play for the Essendon Football Club; loyal, resilient and fiercely competitive.

"Tomorrow the Essendon family will make a stand for its future, and I’m proud to see Heath is committed to being a part of this new and exciting journey.”

List and Recruiting Manager Adrian Dodoro said the Club remains focused on retaining all 12 suspended players for next season.

“This is a significant announcement for our football Club,” Dodoro said.

“Heath has always been a player who has put the Essendon Football Club first. His genuine love for the Essendon Football Club is clearly demonstrated through his decision to play on next season.

"As a Club we are committed to retaining all 12 players, we are in constant dialogue with their management and I remain confident that Heath will be the first of many to play on next season.”