JAMES Hird has declared Dyson Heppell a champion in the making after the star Bomber midfielder agreed to a new two-year deal.
Heppell's contract extension, which will see him stay a Bomber until at least the end of 2015, comes only two weeks after emerging defender Jake Carlisle recommitted for a two-year term.
Heppell became Essendon's first winner of the NAB AFL Rising Star Award in his debut season of 2011, and has continued to develop at the same rate.
After spending his first two seasons stationed mainly at half-back, the 20-year-old has moved more permanently into the midfield this season, where he has averaged 25 touches.
Hird said Heppell had the characteristics to be an Essendon great.
"He’s had two good years of football and he's set to be a champion of Essendon, if he’s diligent about the way he trains, diligent about his preparation and an excellent competitor on the field," Essendon coach James Hird said.
"Dyson is a natural leader. He puts a bit of pressure on himself, which is good to an extent, but the way in which he’s led both the younger and senior guys is terrific and his move into the midfield this season has been outstanding."
Heppell, who last year was elevated to the club's leadership group, said he was confident in the future of the club.
"We're certainly heading in a great direction, the game-plan we have in place is really good and it's going to make us competitive long into the season and hopefully finals," he told The Hangar on Wednesday night.
Heppell has played 48 games for the Bombers since being drafted by the club with pick eight at the 2010 NAB AFL Draft.
Follow AFL website reporter Callum Twomey on Twitter at @AFL_CalTwomey.
