Sylvia, 23, and exciting small forward Austin Wonaeamirri re-committed to the club for a further two years after another tough season for the Demons.

Sylvia, who was the number three pick in the 2003 national draft, showed signs of fulfilling his potential in 17 games this year, producing the best football of his career so far.

He began his football career with the Merbein Football Club in the Sunraysia Football and Netball League, making his senior debut at just 15, and was a member of the Pies 2002 premiership winning side.

Melbourne will no doubt be pleased to retain the services of Syliva after the revelation that fellow midfielder Brock McLean would leave the club.

For more of this story, purchase your copy of Saturday’s Sunraysia Daily 26/09/2009.