WESTERN Bulldogs youngster Marcus Bontempelli has signed a two-year contract extension, tying him to the club until the end of 2017.
Bontempelli, who is a warm favourite to take out this year's NAB AFL Rising Star award, was not due to come out of contract until the end of next season, but the Dogs were keen to lock him away.
The Bulldogs selected the 192cm midfielder with pick No.4 in last year's NAB AFL Draft and he has proven his lofty standing by averaging 15.5 disposals from 13 games this season.
The 18-year-old said he believed the club was on an upward trend.
"I feel fortunate to have been drafted to this club, and my first year has been extremely enjoyable," Bontempelli told News Limited.
"I’m looking forward to being part of what is an exciting future here."
