Fremantle have locked in a key component to their football operations with GM of football Peter Bell to remain at the club until at least the end of 2022.

The former Fremantle captain, three-time Doig Medallist and Freo life member’s contract extension was finalised prior to a scheduled meeting of the Fremantle board in Melbourne on Monday.

Fremantle CEO Steve Rosich told The West Australian both he and Bell are relishing working alongside each other in their management responsibilities.

“We have developed a strong working relationship,” Rosich said.

“We are working closely together at the moment to ensure we are not only continuing to compete this season and given that our season is still alive that is super important.

“But also, we want to firm up our plans within footy operations for next season and Peter is leading that work.”

 “We have played in five finals series in the last nine and our aim is to get back to consistent finals footy.

“We have a clear strategic plan and a plan to return to playing finals football.”

Bell said he was thrilled to extend his contract with Fremantle and help steer the club towards a return to playing consistent finals football.

“As a proud Fremantle person, it continues to be a great opportunity to work as the general manager of Football at the club,” Bell said. 

“I look forward to continuing to work with Steve Rosich to support our senior coaches Ross Lyon and Trent Cooper, as well as our AFL and AFLW players and staff.

“In the past year we played in our first AFLW finals series and have seen our men’s team continue their growth and development, with the goal of returning to playing consistent finals football.”