JAKE Melksham is locked in for a 15th AFL season, after Melbourne re-signed the experienced forward via the 2023 AFL Rookie Draft on Wednesday.  

The Demons made a commitment to Melksham last month, having delisted him as part of the club’s first list lodgement, to re-select him for what will be his ninth season in the red and blue. 

It follows a strong 2023 campaign, where he kicked 20 goals and played a significant role for the program, despite suffering a knee injury in the final home-and-away game of the season. 

Melbourne List Manager Tim Lamb acknowledged the 32-year-old’s continued effort and impact.  

“Jake played a really important role for us this year, and did so with character and class,” Lamb said. 

“His significant impact on the field was matched with his leadership and work ethic off it, and his desire to improve, not only his own game but that of those around him, was prominent. 

“Jake means a lot to our football club; you only have to look at the outpouring of love and support following his ACL injury towards the end of the year. We are really looking forward to him continuing his career as a Demon.” 

Melksham has tallied 221 games and 180 goals since making his senior debut in 2010, adding 13 matches and 20 majors this past season.  

The former Bomber was drafted with pick No.10 in the 2009 National Draft and played 114 senior games before joining Melbourne ahead of the 2017 season. 

With the road to recovery well and truly underway, the Demons are confident Melksham can continue to power through his rehabilitation and work towards a return in the later stages of the 2024 AFL season.