New Essendon key defender Ben McKay says the pressure after signing a lucrative six-year deal with the Bombers is a “privilege”, as he aims to play finals in the red and black.
McKay had a tough stint at North Melbourne, winning just eight of his 71 games across six years, before being traded to Essendon at the end of the 2023 season.
Despite his difficult journey at Arden Street, the 25-year-old holds no bad blood, looking ahead to a fresh challenge with Essendon, who he believes are on the edge of a finals berth.
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“Let’s be real, I didn’t win a lot of games at North. But as I said, I loved my time there and wouldn’t change a thing,” McKay said on Thursday.
“I wanted to challenge myself in a new environment, that was the main decision because Essendon are right there.
“I think they’re right around the corner from success.”
He reunites with former North Melbourne coach Brad Scott who has headed up the Bombers since the start of this year, with hopes that this time around will be a more successful stint.
“It’s exciting to be a part of a team that has some pressure on it. I think it’s a privilege,” McKay said.
“I thought Essendon presented really well. I’m really excited where Brad’s (Scott) taken the group.”
McKay admitted that his decision to request a trade wasn’t an easy or quick one, confirming he had thought about his next destination well before the end of the season.
“It probably started about six or eight months ago, thinking about what’s the best decision for your footy career,” he said.
McKay’s front-loaded deal with the Bombers will see him earn up to $1.5 million in just his first season at The Hangar, heaping pressure onto the young defender.
“I can understand where the six-year deal comes into it, the body has got to hold up,” McKay said.
“But I’m only 25, so my best footy is well and truly in front of me.”
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
