“It looks like I’ll finish my career off at Port Adelaide and become a Life Member and be part of the club forever and that’s what every player aspires to do,” Brogan said following the Power’s big win over the Kangaroos.
“I’m very happy I’m staying at Port Adelaide – great club, lots of things going on next year and I’m very excited.”
The two-year deal covers seasons 2009 and 2010, and Brogan said it included a clause for a third season, should he play enough games in 2010.
The 29-year-old has played 121 AFL games since joining via the Rookie List prior to the 2000 season. He will qualify for Life Membership of Port Adelaide after spending ten years at the club.
Brogan said 2008 had been his best individual year and looked forward to continuing to grow as a leader.
“When you start out you aspire to be a leader of the club. I feel it’s my duty. I’ve been (on the senior list) eight years now, I’m 29 years old and I feel comfortable with it,” Brogan said.
“We’ve got some great leaders at the club and it should be exciting times in the future.”
Brogan confirmed there had been interest from other clubs through the negotiations of his new contract, and his coach Mark Williams paid tribute to Brogan for signing with the Power.
“You saw today what influence he has on our results,” Williams said.
“With our club playing poorly this year, it’s easy for him to walk out. Without doubt he would have got more money at other clubs but he’s come from the rookie list and to be right up there with our leadership group … speaks very highly, and I’m thrilled that he’s going to be here, so well done mate.”
Williams, unprompted, also paid tribute to General Manager – Football Operations Peter Rohde for his work in the negotiation process with Brogan.
“It’s always a tough task being a football manager and having to negotiate with the players. One day you’re best mates and the next day they think you hate them,” Williams said.
“When the players get up in age, we have to limit our liabilities in regard to their (potential) injuries.
“To give Dean the opportunity, we see no reason that he’s not going to play three or four more years.
“His number one asset is his running ability and that’s definitely still there. He can still jump and he’s even worked on his goal kicking this year.
“There’s a real feeling at Port Adelaide (that) we continually try to work and make players better so whatever he shows this year we hope to be a lot better next year and the year after.”
