Promising Western Sydney ruckman Kieren Briggs is the latest GIANT to extend his contract with the club, re-signing for another two years.
The 19-year-old became the second Western Sydney product to be drafted by the GIANTS when he joined the club at pick 34 in last year’s draft as an Academy selection.
GIANTS List Manager Jason McCartney said it’s another exciting signing for the club.
“It’s great to add another two years for Kieren, who was considered one of the best tall prospects in last year’s draft,” McCartney said.
“Having already been involved in the club through the Academy over the recent years, it’s been a seamless transition for him into the life of an AFL footballer.
“He’s continued to grow and develop in the NEAFL this season and is a really exciting ruck prospect for the club.
“Being a local Western Sydney boy, we’re looking forward to him being a role model and example for all the young up and coming footballers in the region.”
Hailing from the Pennant Hills Demons, Briggs has played every NEAFL game this year, starting with a forward line role before moving to the sole ruck with Shane Mumford and Dawson Simpson playing AFL and Matt Flynn going down with an ACL injury.
Briggs said he’s enjoying his first year in GIANTS colours and looking forward to his continued development.
"The culture around the club’s been really welcoming, all the boys have been great in helping me transition into the AFL environment,” Briggs said.
“I spent some time at the GIANTS when I didn’t get drafted as an 18-year-old, which was great for my development and my relationships with the guys. Learning off players like Dawson Simpson and Shane Mumford has really helped my craft.
“Growing up in Sydney was a big factor as well, being able to stay close to family and friends. I grew up supporting the GIANTS so to be playing for the club is awesome.”
Already contracted for an initial two years after he was drafted, Briggs has extended through to the end of 2022.
Briggs’ signing comes hot on the heels of contract extensions for Tim Taranto, Sam Reid, Sam Taylor and Connor Idun in the recent weeks, along with Josh Kelly, Jacob Hopper, Nick Haynes, Adam Kennedy, Harry Himmelberg, Brent Daniels and Matt de Boer earlier in the season.