Essendon recruit Zac Clarke eyeing opportunity alongside Tom Bellchambers

Essendon recruit Zac Clarke is confident he can play in the same team as fellow ruckman Tom Bellchambers next season — and there is a very good reason why.

Essendon recruit Zac Clarke is presented with his jumper by fan Eugene 4yrs at their family day Melbourne Showgrounds. Picture: Ian Currie

Essendon recruit Zac Clarke is confident he can play in the same team as Tom Bellchambers next season, having focused on his forward craft during a year of exile from the AFL.

Delisted by Fremantle at the end of 2017 after 101 games across eight seasons, the 203cm ruckman rediscovered top form in the WAFL this year, recording 17 disposals, 50 hit-outs and kicking a goal to help lead Subiaco to a dominant Grand Final win.

That game, among others, caught the attention of several AFL clubs who put Clarke through medical examinations before the Victorian chose Essendon as his preferred destination and was listed during the AFL’s Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period earlier this month.

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Clarke, 28, began a teaching degree at university this year and took up a coaching role at a Perth high school but said his determination to return to the AFL never wavered.

Essendon recruit Zac Clarke is presented with his jumper by young fan Eugene, 4, at the club’s family day at Melbourne Showgrounds. Picture: Ian Currie

“I was 27 when I got delisted and that’s obviously getting towards the older stages of an AFL career but I was really confident if my body held up my best football is capable at AFL level and that’s the way it went,” Clarke said.

“I’m really excited for the opportunity, really grateful to Essendon and really looking forward to paying them back.”

A persistent knee injury saw Clarke miss the entire 2017 season at the Dockers but that is now a “non-issue” after he did not miss a game for Subiaco this year.

Clarke kicked 19 goals from his final 11 games in the WAFL and said the versatility of both he and Bombers No.1 ruckman Tom Bellchambers to play forward meant there was every chance both could play in the same side.

Clarke in action for Freo before injury took hold. Pic: Getty Images

“That was one of my focus areas at Subi, being able to go forward and impact on the scoreboard, which I think I did,” Clarke said.

“I’ve seen Tom play quite well forward as well. He takes a good mark. But he had a really strong season this year so it’s obviously his spot and if I have to play second ruck or whatever role that is, I’m happy to do that.”

Clarke will wear No.20 next season after being presented with his new jumper at the club’s family day on Saturday.

Originally published as Essendon recruit Zac Clarke eyeing opportunity alongside Tom Bellchambers