Emerging duo Riley Garcia and Louis Butler have signed one-year contract extensions with the Western Bulldogs.

The 2019 draftees have each had a taste at senior level across their first two years and have recommitted until the end of 2022.

“We’ve been pleased with what we’ve seen from Riley and Louis in the early stages of their careers as Bulldogs,” General Manager of List Management and Football Projects, Sam Power, said.

“They handled the challenges of a different first year in the system – in the Gold Coast hub – really well and have continued to develop nicely this season.”

Garcia, 20, made his AFL debut in round 11 against Melbourne and has played four AFL games.

The tough, inside midfielder was recruited by the Bulldogs with pick 62 in the 2019 NAB AFL Draft.

“Riley has overcome some challenges with injury and it’s been great to see him get a run of games under his belt,” Power said.

“He is competitive, clean below his knees and has played some strong VFL football to force his way into the AFL side.”

Butler has played one senior game in 2021 – as the medical sub – after playing two games in 2020, including his debut in round four.

The 19-year-old was drafted as a defender with pick 53 in the 2019 NAB AFL Draft and has developed on a wing this season.

“Louis has displayed some consistent VFL form in 2021,” Power said.

“He’s only had the one senior opportunity so far this year but has spent more time on a wing and impressed with his ability to cover the ground, win a lot of the ball and hit the scoreboard.”