Ben McNiece Biography

Ben McNiece, who joined Essendon through the club's Next Generation Academy, has been cut from the list after managing 15 senior games across three years.

"Ben displayed great dedication to the program, he was a popular player amongst the group and brought great leadership to our younger players," Bombers footy boss Dan Richardson said.

Ben McNiece re-signs with Essendon as a category B rookie for 2019.

McNiece made his debut on Anzac Day in 2017, and played eight senior games in 2018 but has battled injury issues in his time at the club.

"With injury hampering his progress in his first season, it has no doubt been frustrating for Ben," Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro said.

"Despite the setback, Ben has shown great determination throughout his two years on the list. He is a quality young man and we are excited to see what he can achieve in 2019."

Ben McNiece makes his AFL debut for Essendon at the MCG with 11 disposals (4 kicks and 7 handballs), 2 marks and 3 tackles in a 18-point win over Collingwood.

Essendon has signed VFL player Ben McNiece as a Category B rookie through its Next Generation Academy.

McNiece, who qualified under multicultural academy rules as his mother was born in India, is a hard-at-it defender who has been a part of the club's VFL side for the past two seasons.

The 178cm backman becomes the first player to join the Bombers through the multicultural and indigenous academy rules.

"Ben's addition provides us with another small defensive option," Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro said.

"Ben has an elite left kick, and he has a super competitive nature which allows him to win a lot of contested possessions.

"He has shown he is capable of shutting down some of the state league's best small forwards and will continue to play an important role for us this season."