Discarded Essendon Bomber becomes first Tasmania Devils recruit

Former Essendon forward Jye Menzie has made history as the first VFL signing for the Tasmania Devils.

It completes a full circle for the journeyman forward.

Menzie, 22, is a Tasmanian native who joined the Bombers from SANFL club South Adelaide in the 2022 mid-season AFL draft.

Originally from North Hobart and Bridgewater, Menzie played 47 games for the Bombers, including 10 this season, and kicked 36 goals.

The Devils’ VFL and VFLW programs will start pre-season programs in November.

“I am a proud Tasmanian, and I cannot wait to be involved in the build of the club from the ground up,” Menzie said in a club statement.

“I am really looking forward to getting in on the ground floor and being back in Tassie and getting stuck into training.“I have learned a lot during my career so far, and particularly during my time in the AFL. I am really eager to share my learnings and continue to grow whilst being back on home soil.”

Tasmania list management boss Todd Patterson said Menzie had made clear the “passion” for his home state when the club was looking to recruit him.

The Devils are holding regional trials in Tasmania this week as they look to start recruiting local players.

Tasmania are due to join the AFL in 2028, although earlier this month the state planning commission rejected a proposed new Hobart stadium.

The AFL’s stance is that the Devils joining the league is conditional on the controversial stadium project going ahead.