FORWARD/ruckman Jack Fitzpatrick will remain a Demon until at least the end of 2015, after he signed a two year deal.

The 22 year-old has played 14 matches, including the past 11 this season, since making his AFL debut against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval in round 24, 2011.

Fitzpatrick’s new contract comes on the back of an impressive second half of the year, since holding his place in the side from round 10 against Hawthorn at the MCG.

He has booted 18 goals, including 15 this year. This included a career best four goals against the Brisbane Lions at TIO Stadium in round 17, and three majors against the Sydney Swans at the MCG in round 15.

General manager of football operations Josh Mahoney said Fitzpatrick’s commitment was some good news for the club.

“Jack has shown signs this year that he can be a good AFL player,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“He’s kicked multiple goals in a number of games this year as a key forward and his ruck work is continuing to improve.

“Jack has had an injury interrupted start to his AFL career, but hopefully he can finish off this season [strongly] and have a good pre-season. We still think he’s got a lot of scope for improvement in his game.”

Originally drafted at No. 50 in the 2009 NAB AFL Draft, Fitzpatrick has had to overcome several hurdles to not only make it onto an AFL list, but also hold a place in the team.

He suffered chronic fatigue syndrome as a youngster and during his time at the Demons has been diagnosed with diabetes.

Injuries have also interrupted his career, but his running capacity for a player of his size – especially quick over 20 metres – makes him a rare commodity in the competition.

After dominating in the VFL, Fitzpatrick’s development, particularly in the second half of the season, has been one of the positive aspects of an otherwise dismal year for Melbourne.

“He’s taken the next step into the AFL, and has taken his opportunity through some injuries this year,” Mahoney said.

“Jack, being 200 cm tall and with the speed that he has, [he] will prove to be a very difficult match up for any opposition defenders in the future.”