2016 REVELATION Darcy Byrne-Jones will remain at Port Adelaide next season after agreeing to terms on a two-year contract.
It will tie him to Alberton until at least the end of the 2018 season.
Byrne-Jones rocketed to the attention of the football world on debut in Round 3, with the memorable sight of the running back kicking his first AFL goal while bleeding freely summing up his take-no-prisoners attitude to football.
After two seasons playing for the Magpies in the SANFL, which included an appearance in the 2014 grand final, Byrne-Jones earned his AFL stripes after a strong summer on the track.
He has played every game since his debut, with the high point coming in Round 10 when his superb defensive performance earned him his AFL Rising Star nomination.
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Darcy Byrne-Jones celebrates a win with teammates at his debut game, Round 3 v Essendon 2016. Photo: Kane Chenoweth
“Playing my first AFL game earlier in the year was a dream come true, and it’s been a thrill getting the chance to go out and play all season,” Byrne-Jones said.
“I’ve learned a lot from my coaches and senior teammates down back, and I’ve still got plenty more to do.
“I’m really happy to be staying around for another two years.”
DARCY BYRNE-JONES PROFILE
Ken Hinkley entrusted Byrne-Jones with important tasks throughout the year, and is looking forward to seeing his development continue.
“You know what a player like Darcy is going to give you every time, when he crosses that line he gives you 100 per cent,” Hinkley said.
“I don’t think anyone would say Darce hasn’t earned his place in our team this year, but that comes from two years of really strong, hard work in the SANFL and during pre-season.
“He’s only played his first year of AFL footy, but he handles himself well out there and we’ve been really comfortable with giving him some important jobs to do.”
Darcy Byrne-Jones record
Debut: Round 3, 2016 v Essendon
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers (2013 National Draft, pick 52)
Junior club: Camberwell
Career games: 19 (as at Rd 22, 2016)
Career goals: 3
NAB AFL Rising Star nominee: Round 10, 2016
