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Port Adelaide forward Sam Powell-Pepper signs four-year contract extension

Sam Powell-Pepper has opened up on the frustration of spending most of this season on the sidelines — and what he has learned — after inking a new long-term deal at Port Adelaide.

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Sidelined Port Adelaide forward Sam Powell-Pepper has signed a four-year contract extension.

Powell-Pepper, who suffered a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament rupture in round 7, already had a season to run on his deal but was now tied to the Power until the end of 2029.

The 26-year-old has become a fan favourite and one of the team’s barometers over the past few campaigns, finishing fifth in the best-and-fairest in 2022 and sixth in 2023.

He joined the leadership group this season.

The West Australian product was pleased to be staying in Adelaide, where he was settled with fiancée Brya and daughters Frankie and Billie.

“I just love being at Port Adelaide and I can’t imagine playing anywhere else,” Powell-Pepper said.

“I’ve made so many great mates here and my family has been welcomed at the club with open arms.

Sam Powell-Pepper is helped from the field in Round 7. Picture: Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images.
Sam Powell-Pepper is helped from the field in Round 7. Picture: Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

“While this year has been tough for me personally with my injury, it’s taught me lessons about patience and resilience, and about being a great leader, even when you’re not on the field.

“Being in the leadership group this year has been a career highlight for me, and I can’t wait to come back stronger next year.”

Port Adelaide list manager Jason Cripps said Powell-Pepper was an important member of the squad.

“He brings energy and positivity, and he boasts a formidable on-field presence with his forward pressure and the way he attacks the ball,” Cripps said.

“To lock him in to continue his time at Port Adelaide is really pleasing.”

Port Adelaide selected Powell-Pepper at pick 18 in the 2016 national draft.

He made his debut in Round 1 the following year.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/port-adelaide-forward-sam-powellpepper-set-for-mammoth-extension-despite-acl-worry/news-story/dfbb96050ecfcf7a23f4e6ef0407be94