PORT ADELAIDE has locked away Willem Drew until the end of 2028 after the reliable midfielder agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension.
Already contracted for next season, the new four-year extension will see Drew tied to Alberton beyond his initial eligibility for free agency.
Drew said he had no hesitation in extending his contract with the Power.
“I’m thrilled to have signed on with Port Adelaide for the next five years,” Drew said.
“It feels our entire club is building great momentum both on and off the field. We have an exciting young list, a really connected playing and coaching group and worldclass training facilities, so the decision to stay was easy from my perspective.
“I have no doubt our club is tracking in the right direction and I want to be part of it.
“It’s good to extend the contract now so I can focus solely on a strong pre-season campaign ahead of 2024.”
Foot injuries had initially hampered the North Ballarat product’s progress at AFL level but he has not missed a game in the last three seasons, currently on a run of 70 consecutive games.
Ranked elite for tackles with nearly seven per game and averaging 4.4 clearances, the 25-year-old has become an integral and highly valued member of Port Adelaide’s engine room.
“Willem is a well-liked and highly respected member of our playing group for his work-rate and the care he shows for his teammates,” List Manager Jason Cripps said.
“He is approaching 100 games now, having performed at a consistent level for three years, and we see him entering the prime of his career as a key part of our midfield.”
Drew arrived at Port Adelaide with the 33rd pick in the 2016 AFL National Draft and has now played 81 AFL games and kicked 15 goals.
