Essendon sign experienced ruckman Clarke

Saturday, 1 December 2018:

ZAC CLARKE of the Dockers celebrates after a goal during the AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Sydney Swans at Domain Stadium in Perth, Australia.
ZAC CLARKE of the Dockers celebrates after a goal during the AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Sydney Swans at Domain Stadium in Perth, Australia.


Experienced ruckman Zac Clarke will don the colours of Essendon in the AFL next season.

The Bombers signed the former Fremantle Docker during the AFL pre-season supplemental selection period until at least the end of 2019.

Clarke spent 11 years at Fremantle where he played 101 games and kicked 46 goals. He was selected by the Dockers with pick 37 in the 2008 National Draft.

After being delisted in 2017, the 28-year-old spent 2018 playing for Subiaco in the WAFL where the side won the premiership.

"I'm really grateful for the opportunity to play with a club like Essendon and thank them for their belief in me as a player," Clarke said.

"I grew up in Melbourne, so it's great to be moving back home after 10 years away."

Essendon's list manager Adrian Dodoro said Clarke will provide the Bombers with additional depth in the ruck.

"Zac had a terrific year at Subiaco in the WAFL this year, where he featured in all 24 games and ultimately played in a premiership," Dodoro said.

"We feel he has a lot to offer as an experienced ruckman who also has the ability to push forward if needed."






AAP