Star Docker forward rewarded with two-year contract extension
FREMANTLE livewire Michael Walters has signed a two-year contract extension that will see him remain a Docker until the end of the 2018 season.
Walters still had two years to run on his existing deal but the Dockers have secured the services of the talented small forward for the long term.
The 23-year-old, who kicked 46 goals in 2013 and made the All Australian 40-man squad, told the Fremantle website that he had signed long-term for family reasons and out of loyalty to the club that showed faith in him during his struggles of 2012.
"I signed especially for my family, the security to stay here for another four years - I'll be 27 at that stage," Walters said.
"In 2012 my career was over, and I wasn't sure if I was going to get another contract or whether I was going to be here.
"I want to show faith to the club that I'm going to stay, because they showed faith in me."
Walters turned himself into a genuine match-winner for the Dockers in 2013 after being banished in early 2012 for failing to meet the minimum training standards.
The left-footer was sorely missed for large parts of 2014 after a serious ankle injury in round three curtailed his year. He returned late in the season to have an impact in the finals.
Fremantle's general manager of player management, Brad Lloyd, described Walters' turnaround as an inspiration to the playing group.
"Michael has made a tremendous turnaround in his career and he is now one of the hardest workers in the team and a great example for our younger players," Lloyd said.
"We're very excited to have Michael committing long-term to the club."
Claudia Whitfort will remain at Gold Coast until at least the end of 2027 after signing a contract extension with the club
TEAMS: Star forwards ruled out, Daniel misses again
Check out the line-ups for Thursday night's clash between St Kilda and Western Bulldogs
Swan's big contract call, Lion weighs up offer, Tiger's trigger
Check out all the latest trade news from around the League
'Really good opportunities': Winger finds silver lining through Eagles' dark days
After injury wiped out his debut season, Campbell Chesser says game time last season in an injury-decimated West Coast team fast-tracked his development