Collingwood ruckman Brodie Grundy has signed a three-year contract extension, ensuring he remains a Magpie until the end of the 2017 AFL season.

Selected with the 18th pick of the 2012 National Draft, Grundy has fast emerged as a pivotal member of the club’s next generation, his standout performances last season earning him a rising star nomination as he lead Collingwood’s ruck division into the 2013 AFL Finals Series.

Anointed Collingwood’s number one ruckman heading into the current season, the 19-year old reaffirmed his potential with an admirable display against Fremantle’s Aaron Sandilands, his unique blend of craft and industry clearly evident despite boasting just eight games of senior experience.

Grundy told Collingwood’s television program The Club he was delighted to commit his future to the black and white, revealing his decision to re-sign early in the campaign was spurred by a desire to eliminate the potential for distraction.

“I’ve decided to recommit to the Collingwood Football Club for another three years, till the end of 2017. I’m obviously really excited about that,” Grundy said.

“Putting pen to paper was a very big decision, it’s something I didn’t take lightly, it involved all my family, management and it was something I wanted to get done early.

“I knew I wanted to stay at Collingwood and play my football here, I didn’t want that dragging out throughout the year.”

Director of Football Rodney Eade said Grundy’s promising growth as an AFL footballer has Collingwood enthusiastic about what lies ahead, and that his re-signing is an investment in the club’s long term prospects.

“Brodie is part of the next generation of young talent whose progress has provided a window on an exciting future for the club,” Eade said.

“Since joining Collingwood in 2012, Brodie has tackled every challenge thrown his way with great enthusiasm, and embraced the responsibility which comes with playing a key role at senior level.

“We’ve been delighted by the strides Brodie has made in Black and White, and certainly look forward to his continued development in the years to come.”