Young star James O’Donnell has committed his future to the Kennel, signing on with the Club until at least the end of the 2029 season.

The 23-year-old already has a year remaining on his current deal but will extend beyond in a strong show of faith to the Club and its direction.

O’Donnell has played 17 matches this season, averaging ten touches and nine spoils a game, while taking on some of the best key forwards in the competition.

The former cricketer was signed as a Category B Rookie in 2023 as a third generation VFL/AFL player alongside grandfather Kevin and dad Simon who represented St Kilda.

The youngster was thrilled to sign on at the Bulldogs.

“I can’t really believe that I am going to have another few years here,” O’Donnell said.

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James O'Donnell | 'It was an incredibly easy decision'

James O'Donnell extends his contract at least until the end of 2029.

“To be given so much trust and confidence from where I came from, I am just super grateful, excited and proud. It has been such a crazy journey over the past four years after being plucked from nowhere by the Club and I’ll enjoy this small milestone while continuing to grow into the player I want to be.

“I’ve definitely enjoyed the experience of needing to step up from a leadership point of view, something that definitely excites me and I’ll look to continue to try and help others and grow in that space.

“The last few weeks and a finals series is just a huge opportunity for us and there is a sense of optimism in the building. We’ve shown at our best we can challenge the top teams, hopefully we put ourselves in a good position to do that.”

Executive Manager Men’s Football Sam Power was pleased to have O’Donnell commit long term to the Club.

“James has been terrific since coming into the Western Bulldogs in 2023, with his professionalism and willingness to learn fast tracking his development as an AFL footballer,” Power said.

“In his third season, James has become a young leader of our football club, playing on some of the best key forwards in the game. He has shown a great willingness to compete and support his teammates in the air and on the ground in the backline.

“A great character around the locker room, James forms an important part of our young core that are going to drive the Club forward over the coming years.”