In-form forward Bailey Dale has re-signed with the Western Bulldogs.

The 23-year-old was due to come out of contract at the end of 2019, but has put pen to paper on a three-year deal and will call VU Whitten Oval home until at least the end of 2022.

Dale has been a key player in the Bulldogs’ charge towards September, kicking 20 goals in his past six matches. 

This weekend will mark his 50^th game at AFL level, and his first AFL finals appearance. 

“I’m really excited to sign on for another three years,” Dale said. 

“I love playing for this Club and it’s a privilege every time I get to pull on the jumper.

“We’ve got a lot of guys in the same age bracket and the banter’s always pretty good, and I just enjoy coming to work every day and being around these boys.

“I can’t wait to see what the future holds. We’re a young group and we’re playing some good footy at the moment. I love the way we play our footy and I want to be a big part of that going forward.” 

Dale is now in his fifth season as a Bulldog, after joining the Club with pick 45 in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft. 

He becomes the 15^th player to re-sign at VU Whitten Oval in 2019.

General Manager of List and Recruiting, Sam Power, said Dale had a bright future as a Bulldog. 

“Bailey has had a really productive second half of the season at AFL level,” Power said.

“It’s been pleasing to see him get some continuity back into his football after an injury-affected 2018 to become an important contributor in our forward line. 

“As a forward, Bailey is strong in the air and at ground level. His work in the forward half and ability to kick goals has been one of the reasons for our increased scoring late in the season.”