The Western Bulldogs are pleased to announce that midfielder Ryan Griffen today signed a 2 year contract extension with the Club.

Griffen was taken by the Bulldogs with Pick 3 in the 2004 NAB AFL Draft and made his debut the following Season.

General Manager of Football James Fantasia today expressed his delight with the South Australian’s decision to re-commit to the Club.

“Ryan has always carried a lot of expectation but in recent years he has developed into one of the AFL’s elite midfielders.  He is a proven big game performer and the Club could not be happier with the fact we have secured his services until the end of the 2012 Season,” Fantasia said.

Griffen said that he was relieved to conclude his contract negotiations and remain at the Whitten Oval.

“Obviously there was a bit of speculation surrounding my future but I always intended to re-sign with the Western Bulldogs.  Since moving from South Australia I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and I could not be happier to stay at the Club.  I honestly believe the Club has a very bright future and I am very excited to continue to play my part in a period of sustained success for the Club.  We have a great group here and I am looking forward to the future,” Griffen said.

Fantasia echoed these sentiments and sees today’s news as further evidence that the Club remains in a strong on field position.

“Ryan’s decision shows that he has a lot of faith in the direction the Club is moving in and we know that the future is bright at the Whitten Oval.  We have seen significant development this year in our young players like Jarrad Grant, Liam Jones, Liam Picken, Jordan Roughead, Callan Ward and Easton Wood to name just a few.  These players along with a number of others will ensure the Club remains a threat for many years to come,” Fantasia said.   

And now with the negotiations concluded Griffen remains intently focused on this Saturday nights Qualifying Final against Collingwood at the MCG.

“We have a massive challenge ahead of us against the Magpies and while it was never a distraction, it is fantastic to be able to know my future at the Club is secure for the next 2 years.  I just hope all Western Bulldogs fans can come out in force and really get behind us on the weekend” Griffen said.