Port Adelaide have announced the re-signing of three players, with youngsters Matt Thomas, Matt Broadbent and Mitch Banner inking new deals with the club.
Thomas, 23, who inherited Michael Wilson’s number 21 guernsey at the beginning of last season, had his best season in 2010, notching 20 games for the Power to take his overall tally to 49 since debuting for the club in 2006.
Power football operations manager Peter Rohde said the club was thrilled to have re-signed the tough midfielder.
"He has worked very hard to overcome his injury concerns and was suitably rewarded by playing 20 of a possible 22 games this season, his best return by a long way," Rohde said.
"Our supporters love the way he plays his footy and we look forward to Matt continuing his development while maintaining his physical brand of footy."
Thomas said he’s delighted to extend his career at the Power.
"I’m very grateful for the support the club has provided me over the years and I look forward to continuing to develop my game and playing my role within our exciting, young team," Thomas said.
Broadbent, 20, has played 14 games for Port Adelaide since making his debut in Round 16 last season against West Coast while Banner showed his ball-winning capabilities after he debuted in Round 1, to chalk up 10 games for the club in 2010.
Rohde said the re-signing of two up-and-coming players was a huge boost for the club.
"He’s (Broadbent) developed into a very flexible player who can play both forward and back and can also push through the midfield," Rohde said.
"(He) has a great work ethic and we look forward to him getting another pre-season under his belt and continuing his development."
On Banner, Rohde was excited about the young midfielder's promise.
"Mitch has shown considerable improvement over his two seasons at the club," Rohde said.
"He provides a different mix for us through the midfield and has demonstrated an ability to push forward and kick goals."