ESSENDON ruckman Patrick Ryder has signed a new deal that will keep him at the club for the next four seasons.
Ryder, 24, has agreed to a four-year contract with Essendon, where he will remain until the end of the 2016 season.
The capture of Ryder is more positive news for a club that are flying both on and off the field.
"I'm a big family man and it's always in my mind wanting to go home and be with my family, but I made the right decision for my family in Melbourne -- my daughter, my partner and also myself," Ryder told the AFL's website.
"I see that the Essendon Football Club is the place for me to be to get the most out of myself. I love this place and everyone that's involved in this footy club.
"I've got great mates here and I really look up to the coaches. Living in Melbourne isn't too bad. I'd prefer to probably be closer to my family, but I really love this place dearly."
Essendon coach James Hird was pleased that Ryder had committed to the club despite the lure of returning to Western Australia.
"Knowing Paddy's character we weren't concerned, but when money gets thrown around and the type of money people are talking about, people have always got to think about it," Hird told the league website.
"So (there was) a slight concern, but we're just very excited Patrick's decided to stay at Essendon and be an Essendon player for another four years."
Ryder has kicked 82 goals in his 126 games for the club after being drafted at No.7 in the 2005 AFL Draft.
He won the Anzac Medal for best-on-ground in the 2009 match.
AFL.com.au
Last Modified on 25/07/2012 14:19