Midfielder Josh Prudden couldn’t be happier when approached by the Club about extending his contract  and now  the 19-year-old wants to repay that faith.

“[I’m] super excited to have another year at the Club, they have put a bit of faith in me,” Prudden said.

“I’ve got the chance to get my body 100% right before I return to play, rather than trying to rush back to get games in.

“I am very thankful to the Club for that.”

Recruited from the Murray Bushrangers, Prudden said his first season at the kennel has been an educational experience, learning what is expected in a professional environment.

“Having a first year at the Club has been a great eye opener, [and I’m] looking forward to the next pre-season,” he said.

Prudden knows that spots will not be gifted to players in the coming seasons, as the competition ramps up among the playing group – beginning each week at training.

“Footy is what you are here for… [but] testing is good to compete against all your mates and see who is the fittest, who is the fastest,” he said.

“I think there is plenty of competition for spots in the coming years, competition starts out on the track and it is a positive, it is good for the Club.”

While the midfielder is yet to make his senior debut, a number of strong performances in the VFL in 2013 indicate there is plenty of improvement left.

Prudden joins his fellow draft class of Jake Stringer, Jack Macrae and Nathan Hrovat to sign contract extensions throughout the year as the Bulldogs look to retain their young talent.