Former Millicent footballer Mason Redman has turned his back on a reported lucrative offer to join the Adelaide Crows next season and has committed to the Essendon Bombers until at least the end of 2028.
Redman was out-of-contract and a free agent at the end of this year but has opted to continue to stay in Melbourne and wear the black-and-red colours for five more seasons.
He retains close ties with his home town and purchased a prominent Millicent house several months ago.
His father Joel is president of the Millicent Football Netball Club, younger brother Eli is also a talented footballer with the Saints and their sister Tanaya is a Millicent A Grade premiership netballer.
Redman makes the occasional appearance each summer as a top-order batsman for Rendelsham in the Millicent/Naracoorte Cricket Association and also played briefly as a guest player in 2012 with the Tantanoola senior colts in the Mid South Eastern Football League.
He was drafted by the Bombers from SANFL club Glenelg with Pick No.30 in the 2015 AFL National Draft and made his debut in the following year.
With 98 games to his name, 2023 is looking to be a career-best year for the 25-year-old.
Playing every game so far this season in the number 27 guernsey, Redman is averaging more than 22 disposals,
Redman has become one of the league’s most reliable defenders and a key cog across the half-back line in the Bombers’ lineup.
He achieved fourth-place in the 2022 Crichton Medal which is awarded to Essendon’s best and fairest.
“I have absolutely loved my eight years at the Bombers but it’s the potential of this group that excites me the most,” Redman said.
“Our team has seen so much improvement this year, but we know we have a long way to go, and we are all committed to working hard to ensure we are all pushing each other to do whatever we can to achieve the ultimate success.
“I could not be more impressed by the footy club this year and the environment we are trying to create.
“I’m optimistic success is just around the corner for this club.
“As a defensive unit, we hope to build one of the best back lines in the comp.
“It does not happen overnight, but it is something we are striving towards, and I cannot wait to keep getting to work with my fellow defenders and the whole team.
“I get so excited every time I see a Bombers fan do the ‘Red Dog’ celebration and it makes me so grateful to be at a club with such a loyal and dedicated fan base.
“Our supporters are the reason we play.
“At Essendon, we are so privileged to represent them on the big stage at games like Anzac Day, Dreamtime and King’s Birthday Eve.
“But no matter where we play, the Bombers fans always show up.
“The future is exciting for the red and black and I cannot wait to share the journey with all our fans and members.”
Speaking on behalf of the Essendon Football Club, General Manager of List and Recruiting Adrian Dodoro said the club was elated to have Redman’s services for at least the next five years.
“We are thrilled to have Mason remain in the red and black for the next five years.
“He is such an important player for us and has become a real leader within the team,” Dodoro said.
“His spirit and presence around the club is influential for his fellow teammates.
“Mason is the ultimate professional and true club person, committed to not only improving himself but doing anything possible to ensure his teammates are supported in their development.
“He has been explicit in believing what we’re building here at the Bombers and our vision for our club.
“Mason is a much-loved teammate, highly respected by the wider club and adored by fans.
“He wears his heart on his sleeve and we cannot wait to see him continue to grow as a player and person over the coming years.”
