Former Essendon captain Dyson Heppell has signed with VFL standalone powerhouse, Port Melbourne.
The 32-year-old joins the Borough on a two-year deal, fresh off his retirement from the AFL.
Heppell has committed to the club in a dual role as a playing assistant coach, and a community ambassador.
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The Bombers great said incoming coach Brendan McCartney was instrumental in luring him to the club.
“When Brendan reached out and told me of his plans for next season and beyond I was genuinely excited and wanted to be a part of it,” Heppell told the club’s website.
“Football has given me so much so to be able to be part of the program that the Port Melbourne Footy Club has put together is fantastic. It is a small way to give back and hopefully inspire the next generation.”
Heppell played 253 games at AFL level over a 13-year career for the Bombers.
He captained Essendon for six years between 2017-2022, was All-Australian in 2014, and won the Crichton Medal as the club’s best and fairest in 2014.
Heppell was farewelled in the Bombers’ Round 24 game against Brisbane, after which he was chaired off the ground.
Part of his off-field role with Port Melbourne will include leading the club’s football programs and clinics, which are delivered through schools and junior clubs.
McCartney said Heppell’s signature was a great step in the right direction after the club had a disappointing season in 2024, finishing 16th.
“Having a bloke like Dyson in your group can only strengthen the team,” McCartney said.
“His skill is evident and his leadership abilities is a bonus, especially with a lot of young guys in our team.
“They can learn a lot from Dyson and Dyson is excited to share his knowledge and experience with them.”