Matt Guelfi

Matt Guelfi was born on August 14, 1997. He began his football career playing for Claremont in the West Australian Football League (WAFL). After not being selected in earlier drafts, Guelfi was ultimately drafted by the Essendon Football Club with their third selection, 76th overall, in the 2017 national draft. His early career as an apprentice electrician preceded his entry into professional football. His debut for Essendon came in Round 4 of the 2018 AFL season in a 22-point victory against Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium.

Throughout his career with Essendon, Guelfi has established himself as a valuable and tenacious player. He is recognized for his strong forward pressure and ability to adapt to various roles on the field. In September 2019, he signed a contract extension keeping him with Essendon until the end of the 2021 season. The 2020 season, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, saw a reduced number of matches and altered quarter lengths. Guelfi continued to be a consistent contributor for the team.

Guelfi experienced a career-best season in 2022, demonstrating his capabilities as a quality pressure forward. This performance led to a third-place finish in the club’s Best and Fairest award and the McCracken Medal, which recognizes the ‘Player’s Player’. Following this successful year, he signed a two-year contract extension through the end of the 2024 season. In August 2024, Guelfi further extended his commitment to Essendon with another two-year deal, securing his place at the club until the end of 2026.