Essendon Parts Ways with Forward Sam Weideman

Essendon Football Club has made the decision to release key forward Sam Weideman after his 17-game stint across two seasons with the team. Weideman transferred to the Bombers from Melbourne at the conclusion of the 2022 Australian Football League (AFL) season, having previously participated in 59 games for the Demons.

Selected with pick No.9 in the 2015 draft by Melbourne, the 27-year-old athlete has scored 77 goals throughout his 76-game AFL career. Despite his efforts, Weideman will not be offered a contract for the 2025 season, as confirmed by Essendon’s announcement.

In a statement, Essendon’s Talent and Operations Manager Matt Rosa expressed gratitude for Weideman’s contributions. “I’d like to thank Sam for his contribution to Essendon over the past two seasons. These decisions are never easy, but Sam handled it with maturity and professionalism,” Rosa commented. “We wish Sam all the best for his future endeavors and he will always be a part of Essendon.”

Weideman is the grandson of Murray Weideman, a celebrated figure in Australian football history. Known for his career with Collingwood, Murray Weideman played in two premierships and was awarded three Copeland Trophies in the 1950s and 1960s. His legacy is commemorated as part of Collingwood’s team of the century.

Sam Weideman’s departure reflects a broader trend during the AFL trade period, with clubs re-evaluating and reshaping their lists for future seasons. This decision marks a notable point in Weideman’s professional journey as he considers his next move within or outside of the AFL landscape.