Local Football Updates

[Berwick boy]

Hi All,

Seems to be a few of us on here who like to see/hear about any local football updates to pass the time away (especially in the off season).

I have just posted on the Jake Aart's thread he is returning to Beaconsfield so I will throw that story in hear to start off.

As any updates become available online I will post them in here for anyone interested (no matter which league) as we all tend to follow some sort of local league.

** Any particular league just ask and I will check **

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/efl/efnl-2024-exafl-tiger-jake-aarts-signs-with-beaconsfield-for-2025/news-story/33349a78164c783a3f05b82e60839f4a

EFNL 2024: Ex-AFL Tiger Jake Aarts signs with Beaconsfield for 2025​

He’s been one of the most sought-after signings in local footy this off-season, but former Richmond forward Jake Aarts has made his choice. Latest here.
Daniel Cencic
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@DanCencic

2 min read
October 24, 2024 - 11:10AM
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Jake Aarts has spent the past two seasons with Dromana. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Eastern​

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The former AFL Tiger is home.
Jake Aarts has landed back where it all began, reuniting with junior club Beaconsfield for its Eastern league Division 1 campaign next season.
The midfielder and small forward arrives fresh off two years with MPFNL power Dromana, winning a Division 1 flag in 2023 before featuring in another grand final this year.
The 29-year-old played 42 AFL matches for Richmond from 2019-2022, after he was snapped up in the ‘19 rookie draft following stops at Noble Park in Eastern’s top-flight, and Bendigo and the Tigers in the state league.
Beaconsfield senior coach Mick Fogarty knew Aarts’ signature had been highly sought-after by local clubs this off-season.
He played all of his junior football for Beaconsfield and debuted in the seniors as a 16-year-old in 2011.
“It’s pretty special,” Fogarty said of Aarts’ homecoming.
“He did have a lot to think about regarding his footy and where he wanted to take that next year and we’re grateful that he chose to come back to ‘Beacy’ and be a part of what we’re building.
“He’ll not just be a really good player for us, but an on-field leader, directing our guys and our guys are really going to benefit from him on and off the ground.

“Just the leadership he’s got, he’s just going to hold our group in really good stead.”

Aarts in action for Beaconsfield in 2015. Picture: Chris Eastman
Fogarty said while it was a “tough decision” for Aarts to leave Dromana, he was set to reunite with a host of former teammates at the Eagles.
“We always enquired about Jake,” Fogarty said.
“He’ll tell you he really enjoyed his time at Dromana.
“He had a terrific two years down at Dromana and it just fell our way in regards to lifestyle and things that he needed to do going forward.
“It was a really tough decision for him (to leave), but we’re just so thankful that he chose us.
“He knows a fair few of the older guys which is great, so he’ll feel pretty much at home when he rocks up for pre-season.”
Beaconsfield finished the home-and-season in fifth with an 11-7 record before an eight-point preliminary final loss.
Fogarty said Aarts’ addition would provide both Beaconsfield – and the league – with a nice boost.
“I’ve said it for the three years we’ve been in Eastern Division 1 how even the comp is,” Fogarty said.
“There’s just no easy games, and that might sound simplistic to say, but there’s not.
“The EFL’s got a reputation of how strong it is in metropolitan Melbourne, so it’s really good to see these (ex-AFL) players come back.”

 

[Berwick boy]

Nick Hind signs with Palmerston and Darley for next season​

Former Essendon utility Nick Hind has signed for a new footy club and will play as soon as this weekend. Here’s what we know.
Shane Jones and Nathaniel Chambers

4 min read
October 23, 2024 - 5:14PM

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Nick Hind is heading back to the Ballarat league. Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

Local Footy​

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Former Essendon utility Nick Hind is set to be a key for a Top End footy club as it eyes a climb back up the NTFL ladder.
The recently delisted Essendon player, who also played for St Kilda, in his AFL career spanning 95 games since 2019, will play for the Palmerston Magpies this weekend.
Palmerston have struggled for consistency in recent years, and were the wooden spooners after going winless in 2023-24.
But a new wave of optimism is across the club following their Round 3 win against the Darwin Buffaloes and plenty of young talent coming through under new coach Mark Tyrrell.
It’s that young talent that Tyrrell expects will benefit most from Hind’s commitment to the club, born from his connections with the Davey family.
“For our young group to be playing alongside a guy who’s just finished with the AFL is huge,” Tyrrell said.
“He’s got strong ties with the Davey family, so he wants to come up and the league and help the club make the next steps in being successful.
“It’s great that he’s invested and isn’t just coming up to play footy, but also give back to the footy community we have up here and that’s going to be a great building block for the club.”
Hind will play his first game this weekend against Wanderers, who are winless so far this season, and fresh off a list is expected to make an impression.

He joins VFL players Nayef Hamad and Tristen Waack as recent inclusions for the Palmerston side hunting a return up the table.
EARLIER
In what is sure to be a nightmare for opposition teams next year, Darley has signed Nick Hind to join Brett Bewley and form a dynamic ex-AFL duo.
The Devils have signed the former Essendon and St Kilda player just weeks after he was delisted by the Bombers.
The speedster has experience in the Ballarat league, playing for East Point under Dan Jordan in 2013, before making the move to Essendon’s VFL team.
His faith in Hind at that time helped the plumber from Clunes to become an AFL player.

Former Essendon player Nick Hind will be playing for Darley next year. Photo by Albert Perez/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Now, he’s back with Jordan, looking to help the club win its second premiership in three years.
“I’m super excited to be joining DJ and the Devils for 2025,” Hind said in a club statement.
“I’ve obviously kept a close eye on them over the past few years with DJ at the helm and watched a few games when I could.
“I love the environment the club has created and found the boys and the club really welcoming.”
Darley coach Dan Jordan gave an insight into the relationship he shared with Hind.
“I have obviously been a close friend of Nick’s over the past 10 years and we had spoken about him coming to play when his AFL career ended,” he said.
“I know he is the sort of character and footballer that will greatly add to our program and continue to help develop our considerable young talent by bringing his experience, work ethic and leadership to our club.
“Unless a genuine AFL opportunity is offered which we will of course honour, Nick will be assisting myself with some coaching as well as playing and we look forward to welcoming Nick to the Devils in 2025 and beyond.”
Club president Mark Shelly expressed his own excitement.
“He’s signed and committed,” Shelly said.
“He’s had a very close relationship with Dan over the past few years. At the end of the day we trust Dan Jordan’s judgement (in relation to him).”
Shelly said Hind would replace the role Matt Denham played last year for the club.
Denham has retired after almost 15 years at three Ballarat clubs including Bacchus Marsh, Melton and Darley.
Hind would play in the midfield and Shelly said it was sure to create headaches for other teams.
For the past three years the opposition has had to deal with Bewley, who has won two of the last three league best-and-fairests.
Now Shelly hopes other teams have another nightmare to deal with.
“The real boost for us is all of a sudden the teams we compete against, they have all ran around trying to put two or three players on Brett, now all of a sudden they have someone of Nick’s calibre to deal with,” he said.
“They are going to have some thinking to do to stop both of them.”
Shelly said the club was hampered last year by injuries as it aimed to win back-to-back flags.
But with everyone back for next season the focus is on getting back to the top.
“We don’t make excuses, the reality is we were probably the third best team all year and that’s where we finished,” Shelly said.
“Having said that we had some key personnel out at various times and the other part is you don’t realise the impact others had on leaving.
“We had a number of these players reeture all at once and leave hundreds of games of experience out. We were fortunate to play a number of kids.
“We had two under-17s play senior football and had six or seven of our under-19s play a couple of games. We had under-19 representation in the preliminary final.
“That speaks volumes for the development at the club and we’re really comfortable with where our list got to last year.”

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/nick-hind-signs-with-darley-for-next-season/news-story/72ffb2c6330723521e4a287e3bd140f6

 

[Berwick boy]

Northern league clubs make fast start to recruiting season​

RECRUIT TRACKER: Local footy silly season is in full swing and Northern league clubs have brought in more than 50 recruits, including ex-AFL and VFL talent, league medallists and more.
Ben Higgins
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@ben_higgins84

16 min read
October 23, 2024 - 3:30PM

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Deakyn Smith for the Demons. VFL Footscray v. Casey Demons finals game. Saturday, September 2, 2023. Picture: David Crosling

Northern​

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With the echoes of “We’re from Tigerland” still ringing around Preston City Oval, the local footy world’s attention shifts to the new season – silly season.
More than a few Northern league clubs have made a strong start with some big recruiting moves made.
Among 50 new additions in the opening month, an ex-AFL-listed star, Team of the Year guns, VFL weapons and premiership stars headline a growing list of quality additions.
Expect the announcements to keep rolling in thick and fast, so keep track of them here.

Lachlan East in action for Hurstbridge. Picture: Hamish Blair
LACHIE EAST (Hurstbridge)
The former Bridges captain returns to Ben Frilay Oval after two seasons with Division 1 rival Bundoora. East claimed the Bulls’ best-and-fairest this season and was named in the Team of the Year for a fourth time. He finishing third last year as Bundoora reached the grand final. However, he returns home in 2025, to a club where he won three club champion awards and the 2016 Division 2 premiership. One of the competition’s leading defenders and intercept markers, he’ll bolster a backline that already boasts the likes of skipper Ethan Taylor, Jack Stewart and Jake Richards.
JED TYRRELL (Hurstbridge)
The 20-year-old steps up to Division 1 from Division 3 club Kinglake, which he debuted for as a 16-year-old. The midfield-forward kicked 41 goals in 2022-23 before stepping up to a midfield role this season.
DANIEL BOURKE (Hurstbridge)

The 22-year-old Phillip Island native travels north to link up with Mitch Moschitti and Harry O’Brien at Ben Friley Oval. A key member of Phillip Island’s back-to-back West Gippsland league grand final sides. Despite standing 196cm, Bourke has played predominantly as a ruckman but can push forward to be a tall marking option that can hit the scoreboard. Was a train-on player with VFL club Box Hill and will look to earn a full list spot in 2025.

Ethan Penrith in action for Fitzroy Stars. Picture: Josie Hayden
ETHAN PENRITH (Fitzroy Stars)
The Stars certainly aren’t taking their Division 3 grand final loss laying down, adding the gun midfielder/half-back. The former Northern Blues/Bullants VFL-listed star returns to Sir Doug Nicholls Oval having last pulled on the yellow, red and black in 2019, when he won the club’s best-and-fairest playing only nine games. Spent 2022 playing VFL for the Bullants, as well as five appearances for West Preston-Lakeside in Division 1, before moving up to Tatura for the past two years. Won the Bulldogs club champion award in 2023.
BROCK CARTER (Fitzroy Stars)
Another massive addition for the Stars, this time figuratively and literally. Carter, a 204cm ruckman, arrives at Sir Doug Nicholls Oval from WAFL club West Perth. Played 12 senior matches for the Falcons this year, averaging 7.8 disposals and an incredible 32 hitouts. The big man has previously spent time at SANFL club Glenelg too. Could look to follow in Patrick Farrant’s steps and make a push for a VFL list in 2025.
EXAVIER WHITNALL (Fitzroy Stars)
Always a good day at Sir Doug Nicholls Oval when young, talent, key position players walk in the door. Whitnall is 193cm and can play either end or in the ruck. Switches from Division 3 rival Lalor, where he played eight senior games under father Lance. Previously played reserves and under-19s at Division 1 club Bundoora.
LACHY EDWARDS (Fitzroy Stars)
The former Geelong Falcons and Frankston VFL talent has bounced around local footy in recent seasons, suiting up for Belmont Lions, Bell Park, Drysdale, Russells Creek and Point Cook. Lachy is a 6ft 2’ defender who will give us height and strength across the half back, with an ability to play anywhere. The defender made nine senior appearances for the Bulldogs in Western Division 1 this season, serving as an assistant under Clay Smith.

Jackson Davies in action for Bundoora. Picture: Andy Brownbill
JACKSON DAVIES (Greensborough)
A seismic recruiuting move by the Borough, securing Davies’ services. One of the strongest defences in NFNL Division 1 gets stronger with the former Northern Knights, Richmond and Coburg VFL backman switching from rival Bundoora. The 2023 Division 1 Team of the Year star finished second in Bundoora’s best-and-fairest this season and collected the second most Coaches’ MVP votes at the Bulls.
JOEL HARRIS (Bundoora)
The promising young midfielder steps up from Division 3 to the top-flight. Harris was highly impressive in 19 appearances for Mernda this season, earning a mention in the best 12 times and kicking 14 goals. Polled strongly in the Coaches’ MVP as a result. Burst onto the scene with 17 games, with nine bests, in 2023.
LACHLAN URBON (Bundoora)
The Calder Cannons graduate comes down to Yulong Reserve from Ballarat league club Sunbury. The defender played 16 senior games for the Lions this season, pushing forward to also kick nine goals. Played 11 Coates League matches for the Cannons in 2023, where he worked with Brodric Gray, as well eight senior games for Sunbury.

Jared Crosbie in action for North Heidelberg. Picture: Valeriu Campan
JARED CROSBIE (Kilmore)
It’s early days but one of the biggest recruiting coups of the off-season. Crosbie is no stranger to JJ Clancy Reserve having pulled on the two blues in 2019 at under-17 and reserve grade level. Moved to North Heidelberg and has become one of the best midfield-forwards in Division 1 and earned himself a VFL contract this season at Northern Bullants – playing four games. Still only 22, Crosbie gives Kilmore’s premiership hopes an instant boost. Father Shane played in the club’s 1994 Riddell District premiership.
CALEB NEWPORT (Kilmore)
Another strong addition for the Two Blues. Newport arrives at Clancy Reserve from Whittlesea where he played four Division 1 senior games in 2023 and three senior Division 2 matches this season. Played 12 matches in the reserves for the Eagles and finished with 31 goals, including bags of six against Laurimar and Northcote Park. Could push into the midfield with a big pre-season.
JOSH ALFORD (Kilmore)
The former North Melbourne VFL-listed talent is a big boost to Kilmore’s attack. The likes of Ethan Derrick and Bailey Taylor-Egan will relish the delivery inside 50m. Alford arrives at JJ Clancy Reserve from Goulburn Valley power Seymour. Played just the one senior game this season but featured 18 times and kicked 17 goals in an impressive 2023 campaign.
RYAN JOHNSON (Kilmore)
Kilmore has bolstered its backline with the addition of 6’5 key defender Johnson. He arrives from Riddell District struggler Lancefield, so he definitely got plenty of work this season. Played all 16 games this season and was in the best three times. Was previously a long-time player at Broadford.
JESSE TAYLOR (Kilmore)
Crosses from North Central league club Charlton, where he was a best-and-fairest winner. Played 15 games and kicked eight goals this season. Played NAB League football for Calder Cannons and seniors at Riddell and Lorne previously. The Blues hope to use Taylor off half-back where his ball use and “fantastic leadership skills” can shine.
BAILEY WALPOLE (Kilmore)
Made his senior debut for Essendon District club Craigieburn in 2022 but couldn’t break into the Eagles’ side this season, instead playing nine reserve grade games. The midfield-forward is still only 21 and will be looking to take his football up a step at JJ Clancy Reserve.
SEB PRETTY (Kilmore)
Jumps across from NFNL Division 3 rival Lalor, where he played 15 senior matches this season - his first year of senior football. Previously played under-19s at Wallan. A midfielder but can also make an impact at either end of the ground.

Andrew Tashevski-Beckwith in action for Footscray. Picture: Michael Klein
ANDREW TASHEVSKI-BECKWITH (Reservoir)
The Mustangs haven’t wasted any time strengthening their line-up as they look to jump off the bottom of the Division 3 ladder in 2025. Footscray VFL premiership player Andrew Tashevski-Beckwith has signed at Crispe Park. Played 50 VFL games for the Dogs, including the 2016 flag, and arrives from East Keilor, where he played one senior game this season. Spent the 2016 season affiliated with Eltham, so no stranger to the NFNL. Another strong, experienced player to help the club rebuild.
DYLAN BRIZZI (Old Eltham Collegians)
Made his senior debut in 2022 and captained Macleod’s under-19s in 2023 but was restricted to four reserve grade games this season. Will be looking to rekindle his football with the Turtles, bringing Division 1 experience to the club. A midfield-forward who could have a big impact.
BROCK TOGNI (Old Eltham Collegians)
Arrives from Greensborough, where he played 40 reserve grade matches in the past three seasons. The 23-year-old is looking to step up to senior football with the Turtles in 2025. Has “great hands and an impressive leap”, according to the club’s announcement.
OMER MUSTAFA (Old Eltham Collegians)
The speedy winger or half-back played all 18 games at Division 1 reserve grade level for West Preston-Lakeside this season. Made his senior debut for the Roosters back in 2019, spent a season at Epping – playing nine games – and returned to Moore Park in 2023 for another two senior games. A NFNL representative at under-19 level in 2019, Old Eltham will be hoping he can bring speed and skill to Eltham College and cement himself as a consistent senior player.

MICHAEL FLORANCE (Kinglake)
Another North Heidelberg legend joins the Lakers with coach Dave’s brother Michael coming on board. The veteran big man brings a wealth of experience to Memorial Oval after stints at the Bulldogs, Diamond Creek and Hurstbridge. A NFNL Division 2 premiership player at North Heidelberg in 2017 and a two-time Team of the Year player, including Division 1 honours in 2018. Will significantly bolster Kinglake’s midfield.
DYLAN HOYSTED (Kinglake)
Look out Division 3 defenders, Kinglake’s attack is going to be one to watch in 2025. Key forward Hoystead has signed on for the Lakers, arriving after two seasons with Avenel in the Kyabram District league, where he kicked 45 and 47 goals. Certainly not stranger to the NFNL having come through the ranks at Whittlesea and played senior football at Epping. Will add a marking presence in the attacking 50m alongside the likes of Team of the Year ace Damian Pywell and the evergreen Shane Harvey should he decide to play on.
BAILEY & CONNOR CALDOW (Kinglake)
The brothers reunite at Memorial Reserve. Bailey is coming off a season out of the game, while Connor has played the past two years at Avenel in the Kyabram District. Bailey previously played for Epping and both came through the ranks at Whittlesea but have never played together. The Caldows have strong family connections at the Lakers with uncles Mick Nott, Luke Nott and Steve Hurst all having major impacts on and off the field. No doubt Kinglake will hope they can follow in the family tradition.
HIRSI TWOMEY (Lalor)
A big man. A big return for Lalor. Twomey is back at Sydney Crescent after three seasons away at Oak Park in the Essendon District. He played 41 senior games for the club and played a key role in the 2022 Division 2 premiership. Played 13 games as the club stepped up to Division 1 and played finals this season.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/nfl/northern-league-clubs-make-fast-start-to-recruiting-season/news-story/02904e103eaf39a77d9e91d79732374a

 

[Berwick boy]

Part 2

LIAM McVEIGH (West Preston-Lakeside)

Always a good day when a premiership player returns to the club. After three seasons with Ovens and Murray power Wangaratta, McVeigh returns to Moore Park. Kicked four goals in the Roosters’ 2018 NFNL Division 1 triumph but missed the club’s 2019 win. A Northern league representative in 2018 and 2019 and earned a Vic Metro guernsey in 2019 too, while playing three VFL games for North Melbourne. A massive inclusion for the young Wests side.

SAM GLOVER (West Preston-Lakeside)

The 2018 premiership player returns to Moore Park in 2025. The Collingwood VFL captain, best-and-fairest winner and Team of the Year squad gun was aligned with North Ballarat for the past four seasons. Played 17 VFL games for the Magpies and just two for the Roosters this season, so his availability could be limited but having a player of his quality around the club is sure to help regardless.

MASON GRECH (Watsonia)

The Saints were looking for height this off-season and have found plenty in Grech, a 210cm developing ruckman. Yet to make his senior debut but played 34 under-19s games in the past two seasons at Eltham. Joins his cousin, Luke, at Binnak Park.

CHARLIE SMYTHE (Watsonia)

Brings a wealth of Division 1 experience having made his senior debut for Macleod back in 2016. Played 18 senior games for the Kangas between 2022-24 but just two of those came this season, instead making seven appearances in the reserves. Will look to add to Watsonia’s midfield mix or use his skills off half-back.

Riley Gilchrist in action for Wallan. Picture: Andy Brownbill
RILEY GILCHRIST (Whittlesea)

The Eagles have prized out one of Wallan’s best young talents in Gilchrist. The 18-year-old cemented himself as a senior player with the Magpies this season, playing 20 senior matches – including the RDFNL grand final defeat – while also representing the league in the under-18s against Southern. The Whittlesea junior returns to the Showgrounds looking to break into the senior line-up with his “leg speed across the ground and toughness with his attack at the ball”.

BRAYDON & COREY AVOLA (Whittlesea)

The Avola brothers return to the Showgrounds from Avenel in the Kyabram District league. Braydon, a KDFNL representative in 2019, and Swans captain produced an outstanding season in 2024, playing 16 games and kicking 31 goals. It saw him named captain of the Team of the Year and be picked in the centre. Corey, meanwhile, played 13 games and kicked 13 goals in a solid campaign of his own. Both will add plenty of excitement to the Eagles’ line-up in 2025.

BRADYN TAGLIERI (Eltham)

Returns to Panther Place after one season away at neighbouring Old Eltham Collegians. Taglieri has played more than 130 senior games for Eltham and will serve as an assistant coach under Tim Bongetti. Played 12 senior Division 3 games for the Turtles this season, kicking 14 goals. Will provide critical experience and leadership as the Panthers look to further cement their place in Division 1.

KAI TURNER (Eltham)

A massive win for Eltham, gaining the services of arguably the best defender in NFNL Division 3. Turner steps up to top-flight football from Mernda, where he played 53 games in the past three seasons. The star defender earned selection in back-to-back Division 3 Teams of the Year. Has been invited to do a pre-season with Essendon VFL.


ZAC GILLARD (Epping)

Joins his brother at Epping after spending 2024 at Hadfield in the Essendon District league. Made seven senior appearances and two in the reserves. Played at South Mildura (Sunraysia) and Wyndhamvale (WFNL) in 2023 and Tarneit in 2022, where he was captain. The Pingers hope he can slot in as a key defender “whose intercepting is his greatest attribute”.

LUKE JEFFS (Epping)

A serious injury while playing for Whittlesea ended his 2023 early and saw him sit out the 2024 season. Had played 10 senior NFNL Division 1 games for the Eagles before injury struck. Will look to recapture his best with Epping, where he is a club junior, and add to the club’s midfield mix.

LACHLAN AGNEW (Epping)

Played all 18 games at reserve grade level for Greensborough this season and crosses to the Pingers in search of senior opportunities. Was a mainstay of the Borough senior team in 2023, playing 16 games after 11 in 2022 but couldn’t break in this year. Brings top-flight experience to Epping and will look to establish himself at half-back. The Pingers believe “his style of play will fit perfectly with our already strong defensive unit”.

SEB D’ARRO (Epping)

Crosses from Thomastown where he played 18 NFNL Division 2 senior matches this season. Securing the athletic key defender is a significant coup for the Pingers as they look to improve on this season’s semi-final appearance. Conceded 0.9 goals a game according to Premier Data.

MATT WILLIAMSON (Epping)

The veteran big man jumps across from Division 3 rival Old Eltham Collegians. Brings Division 1 and 2 experience from his time at Eltham before joining the Turtles and winning the Division 3 goalkicking medal in 2023, booting 66 goals in 18 games, and club best-and-fairest. Didn’t have the same impact this season, kicking 26 majors in 11 appearances.


CHARLIE GRAVELL (Ivanhoe)

Crosses from Heidelberg where he unfortunately missed out on the under-19 and reserve grade premierships this season. The youngster played three games at reserves level and six in the 19s. Still only 19, so one for the future at Ivanhoe, but also a player that could step up to senior football at Division 3 level. Hoers football manager Nick Godfrey said on club social media “Charlie is really versatile and will give us depth in our wing positions and also in defence”

CHARLIE ROBINSON (Ivanhoe)

The Hoers junior connection continues to strengthen the senior team with Robinson returning. Was part of the 2015 YJFL Colts premiership team has a youngster before making his senior debut in 2017. Went on to play Division 1 football at Heidelberg and was a part of the Tigers’ reserves grand final team in 2022. Work took him to Sydney this year and he played nine games and kicked 12 goals for UNSW-Eastern Suburbs’ reserves in AFL Sydney Division 1.

MATTHEW CAMPBELL (Mernda)

Returns to Waterview Reserve, having last played for Mernda in 2019. A member of Sandhurst’s reserve grade premiership team in the Bendigo league this season. Campbell played 12 reserve grade and six senior matches for the Dragons. Spent three seasons in Tasmania, playing for North Hobart in the State League, making 38 senior appearances. A signficant signing for the club and league.


MITCH BROWNHILL (Lower Plenty)

The tough onballer crosses from divisional rival Watsonia. Still only 22, Brownhill played 33 senior games in his two seasons at Binnak Park having previously come through the ranks at Montmorency. Joins a Bears team on the rise, bolstering the club’s onball brigade with “an ability to win plenty of contested footy, great skills and an appetite for the contest”.

DANIEL JAMES (Lower Plenty)

Have the Bears found a hidden gem in Eltham’s reserves? James, a 6’4 21-year-old played two senior games for the Panthers this season and 15 in the reserves, where he kicked 26 goals. Will join Seth Hill in the Lower ruck division, helping fill the giant boots of Patty Flynn if he decides to hang up the boots.

BEN SMITH (Lower Plenty)

The 23-year-old played one senior game for Eltham this year (against Heidelberg, ouch), spending the majority of the season carving up in the reserves. The midfield-forward finished third in the Division 1 reserves league best-and-fairest count and took home the Panthers’ reserves best-and-fairest award. Will add nicely to the Bears depth for 2025.

DEVON NOONS (Lower Plenty)

Was limited to just eight reserve grade matches this season but did make five senior appearances for Montmorency in 2023 and was part of the Magpies’ Division 1 Under-19s premiership in 2022. The athletic tall can play at either end of the ground and looms as a promising addition to a team on the rise.


PATRICK FITZGERALD (Laurimar)

Recruits will not come much bigger this off-season. Fitzgerald is one of local footy’s goalkicking greats having booted almost 800 majors in more than 250 senior games for Montmorency over 17 seasons. The list of achievements is long, three-time NFNL Division 1 leading goalkicker, two-time Montmorency best-and-fairest, 10-time Division 1 Team of the Year selection, five-time NFNL representative. The power forward gives Laurimar an instant boost in the 2025 Division 3 premiership race.

STEVE McCALLUM (Laurimar)

The Montmorency connection grows at Laurimar with McCallum joining coach Jimmy Atkins and boom recruit Patty Fitzgerald. Arrives from Essendon District Division 1 club Tullamarine, where he spent the last two seasons. Won the Calder Cannons best-and-fairest in the 2009 premiership season, before going on to play 100 VFL games at Williamstown. Spent eight years at Montmorency, winning a club champion award, and represented the NFNL on several occasions.

JAMES STOCKWELL (Laurimar)

Jumps across from Epping where he played just one reserve grade game last season, instead concentrating on basketball. Will add nicely to the Power’s key position depth. Previously played 25 senior games for the Pingers in 2022-23.

Brad Leggett in action for Macleod. Picture: Nathan William Media
BRAD LEGETT (Macleod)

The Kangas great returns to DeWinton Park after a one-season daliance with now-Division 2 rival Panton Hill. Will serve as an assistant coach under new coach, and long-time teammate, Nick Lynch. Leggett is a three-time NFNL Division 1 Team of the Year selection and was voted into the NFNL Team of the Decade. Played 10 senior games for the Redbacks this season, named in the best four times.

DARCY LAURIE (Diamond Creek)

The Creekers junior returns to Coventry Oval from Eastern Division 1 club Montrose. Laurie played 17 senior games last season and 21 in 2023 under coaching legend Gary Ayres and is sure to bring that experience on and off the field. Played one Coates League game for Oakleigh Chargers in 2022 too. Another quality addition to a playing list that has made the last two NFNL Division 2 grand finals.

TY FRANKS (Diamond Creek)

The veteran defender returns to the Northern league after a season away with Riddell District grand finalist Wallan. Franks spent two seasons at Hurstbridge in Division 1 but is a home-grown Diamond Creek talent, last playing for the club in 2021. Made seven senior appearances for the Magpies this season and was named in the best in their preliminary final win.

NATHAN PERRY (Northcote Park)

The West Australian comes down to Bill Lawry Oval after two seasons with Ballarat league power North Ballarat. Made two senior appearances for the Roosters in 2023 but has otherwise plyed his trade in the reserves. Nevertheless, impressed in 15 matches in the seconds this season, kicking 32 goals and being named in the best nine times.


BRENT RYAN (Panton Hill)

Ryan is a 2019 NFNL Division 3 premiership player and Panton Hill Team of Decade honouree. One of the most experienced players in the entire Northern league having played in a Division 1 premiership at Greensborough in 2014. Moved to Beechworth for two seasons before returning to the NFNL with North Heidelberg this year, playing three games in the reserves. Is sure to be a significant addition to Simon Amore’s coaching staff after completing a Level 2 certificate and assisting Jason Heatley this season.

ZAC MANSER (Panton Hill)

The Redbacks pinch a young gun from their neighbours. Manser spent the majority of the season playing under-19s for Hurstbridge but broke through for three senior appearances mid-season, highlighting his potential. Actually made his senior debut in 2022 as a 17-year-old. Finished the Division 2 Under-19 season with 16 goals and 10 mentions in the best in 18 appearances, which saw him finish fourth in the league best-and-fairest count.

CONNOR STONE (Panton Hill)

The talented midfield-forward made his senior debut for Ovens and Murray club Wangaratta in 2017, played one senior game at Hurstbridge in 2019 and has been at Beechworth in the Tallangatta District league since 2021. Produced an outstanding 2024 campaign that saw him kick 45 goals and be named in the best nine times in 16 matches, finishing second in the Bushrangers’ best-and-fairest and earning Team of the Year honours. A significant coup for the Redbacks.

TODD STEVENSON (North Heidelberg)

The Bulldogs recruit brings one of local footy’s best resumes to Shelley Reserve. Stevenson spent time with WAFL club Perth before returning to Victoria with Geelong league club Bell Park. Moved to Essendon District power Keilor in 2019, winning a Premier Division flag. Played for Natimuk in the Horsham District in 2023 then Donald in the North Central league this year. Played 10 games and was in the best four times. The cousin of Bulldog Lachlan Smith.

DEAKYN SMITH (Thomastown)

Ex-AFL talent is heading to Main Street Reserve. Smith was selected by Melbourne as a supplemental selection in 2021. Won the Casey Demons’ best-and-fairest in 2023 but was delisted by the Demons. Spent 2024 at North Melbourne VFL, playing 13 matches, and Doveton in Southern Division 2, making eight appearances. Will return to Casey in 2025 and be aligned to the Bears when available for local footy.

Deakyn Smith in action for Casey Demons. Picture: David Crosling
OUTS

LUKE COLLINS (Craigieburn, EDFL)

A big loss for Bundoora and the NFNL. Collins has been the Bulls’ captain for the past three years, standalone the past two, is a two-time Team of the Year midfielder and regular contender in league and club best-and-fairests. One of the toughest midfielders in the competition. Crosses to Craigieburn, near where he lives, to join former Bundoora assistant and reserves coach Shane Jacobs. Brother Josh is also departing Yulong Reserve for the Eagles.

JAI ROBINSON (Craigieburn)

The Montmorency star departs after five seasons and crosses to the Craigieburn in the Essendon District league. Won the Magpies’ best-and-fairest in 2021, was a two-time Division 1 Team of the Year selection, two-time NFNL representative and previously played for Whittlesea and Mernda.

DANNY YOUNAN (Taylors Lakes)

Makes his return to his junior club after 12 years away. After 104 VFL matches for Coburg and Essendon, Younan retired and became a key player in Bundoora’s surge to back-to-back NFNL Division 1 grand finals. The crafty midfield-forward played 45 senior matches for the Bulls, including 17 this season – kicking 19 goals and earning a mention in the best seven times.

JORDAN HOLLOW (Westmeadows)

A shock as he leaves his dad, Epping coach Brad. Played all 18 games for the Pingers as the club made a semi-final in its return to Division 3. Last played for the Tigers in 2022.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/nfl/northern-league-clubs-make-fast-start-to-recruiting-season/news-story/02904e103eaf39a77d9e91d79732374a

 

[Berwick boy]

EDFL: All the signings of the 2024-25 off-season​

The EDFL off-season has only just started but some clubs have already well and truly started making moves for 2025. Keep up to date with every signing in our signing tracker.
Brayden May
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6 min read
October 23, 2024 - 3:22PM

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Jake Gatto has returned to Keilor Park. Picture: Hamish Blair

Essendon​

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The EDFL off-season is well underway.
Clubs are already making big moves ahead of next season with some guns joining the competition.
We’ll keep you updated on all the moves across the competition.
Here’s a look at all of the confirmed signings so far.
AIRPORT WEST
Hayden Clarke: The versatile midfielder joins the club from the Northern Bullants and Wodonga Raiders.
Nathan Clarke: Joins the Eagles as an athletic forward after spending recent seasons with WFNL club Altona.
CRAIGIEBURN
Nathan Stewart: Joins the club from Euroa where he was a ruck-forward in the senior side.

Dayne Middleton: Returns to the Eagles after a three-year stint with Hurstbridge in the Northern league.
Jai Robinson: Joins the club from Montmorency in the Northern league where he played six senior games in 2024. A highly skilled backman who is well known for his booming kick.
Dom Micallef: Returns to the Eagles after a stint with Tullamarine. Will add height and versatility to the Eagles.
Cody Ball: The tough defender returns to the Eagles after a stint with Avenel in country footy.
Josh Collins: Joins from Bundoora where he played 14 senior games this season. He will slot into the midfield.
Luke Collins: The former Bundoora captain joins the club as a playing assistant coach.
COBURG DISTRICTS
Riley Bentley: The versatile wingman and forward joins his Keilor Park premiership team Damien Cavka at the club.
Jake Gatto: The lockdown defender joins the club from Keilor Park.
Daniel Mifsud: Part of Keilor Park’s 2022 premiership winning side. He is a forward-midfielder.
James Mifsud: A former Keilor Park player who should slot in across half back.
EAST KEILOR
Jalen Gill: Makes the move from Avondale Heights where he played senior footy regularly in 2024.
Justin Van Unen: the legendary goalkicker makes the move from Kilsyth having reached the 1000-goal mark earlier this uear.
Joe Langford: Returns to the club after having 12 months off footy.
CJ Grampsas: The experienced premiership player will bring great leadership to the Cougars.
Ali Khalil: A player with VFL experience, he has previously played at Romsey. Can play across the ground.
Zak Malkoun: A returning former junior.
Harrison Minett: The midfielder joins from Point Cook Centrals in the WFNL. Tough at the contest and can run all day.
Nathan Perrone: An experienced player who has played with Eltham and Romsey in previous seasons.

Nathan Perrone during his time with Craigieburn.
EAST SUNBURY
Jason Kelly: A towering presence who will add to the club’s tall stocks.
Jacob Ottone: Recently played for Glenroy and is capable of playing on the wing or at half forward.
Brendan Fevola: The biggest signing in club history? The former AFL forward joins as the Thunder look to continue improving.
Mitch Trimboli: A tough inside midfielder, who is a former junior. Recently played with Sunbury Lions.
GLENROY
Jonny Roccuzzo: Described as a crafty small forward who joins from Greenvale.
Aaron Dimatteo: The big bodied midfielder joins from Airport West.
Billy Ward: The rebounding defender or wingman joins from Hepburn. Also has experience with Altona.
Julian Hemala: Joins as the club’s playing assistant coach. He was part of the Pascoe Vale side on grand final day in 2024.

Julian Hemala. Picture: Andy Brownbill
HADFIELD
Nathan Johnson: The tall forward joins the club after time with Albanvale.
Daniel Simpson: The left footed wingman/halfback joins the Hawks after a strong career with Waratah in the NT.
Michael Graham: The hard at it midfielder and forward joins from Taylors Lake in the Horsham District league. He was a strong performer for Dimboola in 2023.
Johnny Lindon: The key defender crosses from local rivals Coburg Districts. Fits a need for the Hawks.
Chris Gooch: A versatile tall who brings significant experience to the Hawks.
Nathan Sciberras: Joins the club from rivals East Sunbury.
Nick Markovski: A crafty forward is coming back into the footy fold.
HILLSIDE
Khalil Kaakour: A young gun who joins from Pascoe Vale. He was the joint-winner of the under-18 Premier Division league medal.
KEILOR PARK
Ali Maghnie: The 193cm utility joins the club able to play across the ground.
Callum Brown: A former junior, Brown returns to the club and is expected to play across halfback.
Louis Alexopoulos: Returns to the club after a season with Aberfeldie.
Uriah Matenga: The utility brings speed to the Devils after joining from Aberfeldie.
Nick Nesci: Will add run and flair to the playing list.

Michael Bourke back in the day.
MOONEE VALLEY
Michael Bourke: Back at the club after a year off. Previously named in the EDFL Team of the Year.
Tom Clark: The homegrown talent returns to the club after a year in Premier Division. Plays on a wing.
James Kefalas: A former junior who returns after a stint with Strathmore where he won the reserves best-and-fairest.
Zayas Leonedas: Returns to the Fog after a year away with Avondale Heights where he played 11 senior games.
Josh Toy: The former AFL player joins after recently playing country footy in the Ovens and King league.
NORTHERN SAINTS
Evan Tzoras: the 188cm signing can play at either end of the ground.
ROXBURGH PARK
Dan Watson: Joins from Cobden and brings VFL experience to the club.
Angus Bartolo: A young star in the junior ranks with Greenvale who is now looking to take his opportunities at senior level.
Kaden Hamilton: Joins the club from Deer Park and is a 6’1” utility who can play across the ground.
Anthony Omogrosso: A two-time premiership player who returns to the club.
Steve Golding: Arrives from Hadfield with a serious of accolades to his name throughout his career.
RUPERTSWOOD
Lachlan Fish: The former junior returns to the club. He possesses strong pace and a “lovely left foot”. Spent the 2024 season with Balranald in the Central Murray league.
Angus Price: The Rupo product is back after a couple of seasons with Keilor Park. Will slot into the middle or across halfback.
Owen Sloan: A young ruckman, standing at 201cm, who joins the club after previous stints in the Northern league.
Bailey Verrall: Re-joins the club after a year away with Riddell.
ST ALBANS
Patrick Taban: Re-joins the club after a year after in country footy with Colbinabbin where he played 11 senior games.
SUNBURY KANGAROOS
Connor Bowden: The versatile young prospect returns to the club to play alongside his brothers.
Will Direen: The key defender joins from Heathcote where he was named at fullback in the Team of the Year for the local competition.

Danny Younan has returned to Taylors Lakes. Photo: George Salpigtidis
TAYLORS LAKES
Marc Lock: The Lions say the 6’3” is a “running machine”. He returns to the club after time with Old Carey.
Jack Gusman: Rejoins the club as a homegrown player. He played with Coburg Districts last season and kicked 28 goals in 15 games.
Danny Younan: The former VFL star returns to the club where he played in a premiership in 2010. Since leaving the state league he was a star ar Bundoora.
Jake Hobbs: The ex-Essendon VFL player returns to the club after a stints with Bundoora and Deniliquin.
Damien Petrone: Joins from East Keilor as he looks to put a horror injury run behind him. Stands at 6’4” and plays key position at either end.
TULLAMARINE
Declan Edwards: Joins the club from Williamstown CYMS in the VAFA.
Adam Figliola: The energetic small forward makes the move from Pascoe Vale where he kicked 26 goals in 2024.
Anthony Zanti: A player described as having explosive ability.
Fintan Brazil: A strong halfback with silky skills who joins the club from Benalla in country footy.
Nicholas Owens: The developing ruckman joins from Strathmore where he played some senior footy in 2024. Has a big impact when the ball hits the ground.
Ben Weightman: The exciting forward joins from Taylors Lakes. He’s a former country footy star and was hampered by injury in 2024.
Jamie Trifonos: Joins from St Albans and is expected to play across half-forward and in the middle.
Alexi Mamalos: Has electric pace and is best used on the wing or at halfback. Joins from Craigieburn.
WESTMEADOWS
Jordan Hollow: Returns to the Tigers after the last two seasons with Epping. Expected to slot into the midfield.
Harley Gleeson: Another former Tiger to return home. His versatility makes him a key player.
Hugo Jenkins: The young star arrives from Strathmore where he kicked 35 under-18s goals.
Jake Butcher: Joins from Shepparton Swans in the Goulburn Valley league where he played 16 games and was named in the best in 10. Described as a “crafty mid/forward with explosive speed and excellent goal sense”.
Michael Portelli: Returns to the club after a year away with Hillside in Division 1. He will slot into defence.
Marcus Mammoliti: Returns to the club after a successful career with Airport West. Highly skilled player who will suit the Tigers’ quick ball movement.
Mitch Church: The key forward returns after time away.
Blake Jarram: A former senior player who is returning to the club.
Kane Jarram: Returns to the club after a stint with Epping.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/edfl/edfl-all-the-signings-of-the-202425-offseason/news-story/11cde7f75927caf3035b19e39b8f325d

 

[Berwick boy]

What’s happening at every West Gippsland Football Netball Competition club​

From recruits to departures and everything in between, keep up to date with what’s happening at every West Gippsland Football Netball Competition club here.
Simon McEvoy and Tyler Lewis

3 min read
October 23, 2024 - 3:16PM

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Country Footy​

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The footy off-season is well underway across the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition.
Clubs are already unveiling their fresh faces and ideas for season 2025 and you can keep up with everything in our pre-season tracker below.
CORA LYNN
The Cobras have re-signed their entire list ahead of the 2025 season, a feat they hadn’t achieved since 2016.
They won’t actively look to bolster their A-Grade talent but will add to their depth in coming weeks.
10 Cobras also went to a Casey VFL training session last weekend, pushing their case for a pre-season at the Dees.
DALYSTON
The Magpies have made no recruits or re-signing announcements but will be looking to improve on their four-win 2024.
GARFIELD

IN:
Mobile ruckman Cooper Reilly has returned to the Stars after a season at Pakenham in Outer East league. He had a terrific season at Garfield in 2023.
INVERLOCH-KONGWAK
The Sea Eagles are keeping their cards close to their chest but have confirmed the re-signing of several key players.

Brody Connelly slots a last quarter goal for Berwick in the 2018 grand final. Picture:AAP/ Chris Eastman
KILCUNDA BASS
IN:
Brody Connelly, a Berwick premiership forward with plenty of ‘X-factor’, has moved to the area and signed with the Panthers. Has played mostly at South Belgrave and is also a former Port Melbourne VFL player.
The Panthers have re-signed most of their list, including Travis Tuck, Nathan Foote and Dale Gawley.
KOO WEE RUP
IN:
Billy Rolfe crosses from Mornington Peninsula league power Langwarrin after playing a crucial role in the Roos’ 2022 premiership. He also has experience in the Tasmanian state league as well as a season at Southern Districts in the Northern Territory.
Adding to the Demons’ forward half will be former Pakenham player Sam Kors. Kors played 18 games for the Lions this year for a return of 22 goals He didn’t kick any huge hauls in 2024 but hit the scoreboard in all but four games.
The Demons are confident Josh Bateman (knee), Matt Voss (overseas) and Mitch Cammarano (wrist) will be back full-time next year and be key ‘ins’.
OUT: Nil at this stage.

Billy Rolfe. Picture: Valeriu Campan
KORUMBURRA BENA
IN:
Kyle Brown, a big-bodied key position defender, will complement the Giants’ backline. He joins the Giants after 20 odd senior games and three reserves premierships at Leongatha.
Bryce Rawson returns from Stony Creek where he played a mix of reserves and seniors, including a premiership in 2017. He will coach the Giants’ reserves.
OUT:
While the Giants have retained most of their playing list, one quality player looks like returning to his former club in the Mid Gippsland league.
*Off field, Korumburra Bena has its fully renovated rooms back after a $1.7 million refurbishment.

NAR NAR GOON:
IN:
The Goon are treating brothers Jake and Sam Blackwood as ins for 2025 after they missed large chunks of the season. Jake played the first half of the year while Sam played just three games.
Nar Nar Goon has also been long rumoured to signing former AFL big man Braydon Preuss but “at the moment that’s a rumour” according to new coach Matt Shorey.
OUT:
Brent Hughes and Trent McDermott rode off into retirement after this year’s premiership.
PHILLIP ISLAND
IN:
The Bulldogs are set to sign a couple of experienced players from the Mornington Peninsula league, including a 195cm key position player from a Division 1 club.
OUT:
Ruckman Daniel Bourke has signed at Hurstbridge in Division 1 of the Northern league.
TOORADIN DALMORE
IN:
Andrew Dean returns to the Gulls after a stint in the Mornington Peninsula league, most recently at Karingal. With almost 600 goals in senior football, he’s a key addition.
Jack Flannery is another noteworthy signing; he was captain of Ferntree Gully this year and has kicked plenty of goals as a key forward. He’s sure to provide another avenue to goal for the Gulls.
Former Hawthorn and St Kilda midfielder Shane Savage, with 165 AFL games experience, has signed at Tooradin Dalmore after being one of the leading players at Pines in the Mornington Peninsula league for the past three seasons.
OUT:
Julian Suarez: After becoming only the second player in TDFC history to hit the 100-goal milestone, Suarez has signed at Catani. He kicked 109 goals for the Gulls’ reserves this year.

Andrew Dean is back at Tooradin-Dalmore.
WARRAGUL INDUSTRIALS
IN:
Jeremy Monckton returns to the West Gippsland Competition after a year at Officer in the Outer East league. Prior to Officer, Monckton spent several years at Cora Lynn where he was an interleague representative.
The Dusties are close to signing a number of players who have high-level experience and they will also have a burst of youth, with 10 players out of the thirds rising through to the senior ranks.
OUT:
Champion local footballer Shane Brewster has retired and will be Trafalgar’s next senior coach.
Kyle Beveridge will join Brewster as an assistant coach.
Mason McGarrity has also signed with Neerim South after kicking 26 goals in 12 games this year.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/country/whats-happening-at-every-west-gippsland-football-netball-competition-club/news-story/aa7502b8671927dfe8d1e9d05f86f5ea

 

[Berwick boy]

Outer East league: Ex-AFL player Robin Nahas joins Michael Firrito’s Gembrook Cockatoo​

Gembrook Cockatoo coach Michael Firrito has lured a former AFL teammate to help spark the Brookers’ resurgence in Outer East league.
Simon McEvoy
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2 min read
October 22, 2024 - 9:23AM

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Robbie Nahas marks in front of Michael Firrito.

Local Footy​

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The ex-AFL Kangaroos are bounding to the Brookers.
Former North Melbourne speedster Robbie Nahas is the latest to join Gembrook Cockatoo, coached by his great mate and former Roos teammate Michael Firrito.
Nahas, 36, wants to concentrate on playing as much footy as he can. He follows another ex-Roo, Marley Williams, who signed with the Brookers in September.
Nahas joins the Outer East league club solely as a player after being player-coach at North Ringwood over the past five seasons.
In July, having announced he was stepping down as North Ringwood coach, Nahas said this about his future: “I still want to play as much footy as I can until I can’t really walk.’’
Firrito said he’s thrilled to sign Nahas.
“It’s great to get Robbie, he’s one of my really close mates,” Firrito said.
“He will be great for us, he just brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and will be a good help not only for myself but also our team. Rapt for the get.”

Robin Nahas addressing players as coach of North Ringwood. Picture: Valeriu Campan
Firrito said Nahas’ leadership would be crucial as the young Gembrook Cockatoo side sets itself to climb up the ladder in OEFN Premier Division (it finished ninth with a 5-13 record this year).

“He doesn’t have an official capacity but he will bring leadership out on the ground…he’s looking for something just to play and be free,” Firrito said.
“But I know how competitive he is and how good he is with kids and everything like that.
“He has a really good understanding of the game and people as well, he’s great with young kids which is perfect for our young group because we’ve got a lot of 18, 19 to 23 year olds…it’s probably 90 percent of our team.”

Robin Nahas takes a bounce for North Ringwood. Picture: Valeriu Campan
Firrito said having Nahas and Williams next season was a positive not just for the Brookers but also for the Outer East league.
“It’s great to see these guys coming back to local football,” he said.
“Both played a hundred games of AFL football, they are great gets not only for our team but also for football lovers in general, hopefully we can drag a few people to come along to the games to watch.”
Firrito said the pair would make their mark.
“Just two quality ball users, really quick and agile guys so they’re going to be great for our footy club. But we still need our locals and our young list to do the bulk of the work.
Really excited about our young list and really excited about bringing these guys in to complement.”

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/outer-east-league-exafl-player-robin-nahas-joins-michael-firritos-gembrook-cockatoo/news-story/843e0b75acf7f1bca121e1d2492594a0

 

[Berwick boy]

All the latest recruits in the Ballarat league for season 2025.​

The off-season is well underway for Ballarat league clubs who have unveiled a host of recruits for 2025. Here are all the moves in our signing tracker.
Shane Jones
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less than 2 min read
September 30, 2024 - 11:42AM

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Local Footy​

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It is expected to be a big off-season for the Ballarat league with plenty of change happening off the field.
The loss of Melton South will only leave 10 teams in the competition.
Here are all the off-season signings for each team for next season.
BACCHUS MARSH
No signings yet.
BALLARAT
Ashley Baker, coach: Baker returns to coach the Swans, taking over from Chris Maple for the next two years. A former Swans player, Baker has also coached the club previously for four years from 2013 to 2016.
DARLEY
No signings yet.

EAST POINT
No signings yet.
LAKE WENDOUREE

Jake Lohmann celebrates a goal for Morningside in the 2024 QAFL grand final. Picture: Highflyer Images.
Jake Lohmann: The brother of premiership winner Kai Lohmann is heading back to where he played his first senior game. Lohmann has signed with the Lakers after playing for Morningside in the QAFL and for Brisbane in the VFL. A handy recruit to the team who will predominantly will play in the forward line.
MELTON
No signings yet.
NORTH BALLARAT

Clint Proctor is the new coach of North Ballarat. Picture: North Ballarat Football Netball Club.
Clint Proctor: The former Box Hill VFL coach has signed a two-year-deal to coach the Roosters for next year. He takes over from Brendan McCartney who is now coach at Port Melbourne in the VFL. You can read more about the announcement here.
REDAN
Jordy Keyte: The former St Patrick’s student will return to Ballarat this season to play for the Lions. Keyte joins from the Horsham Saints and is a running defender who knows how to find a target.

Jordan Grant has joined Redan next year. Picture: Redan Football Netball Club.
Jordan Grant: The Hepburn player is on the move to the Ballarat league, joining Redan for next year. Grant has been one of the best defensive players in the Central Highlands league and finished top five in the best and fairest at Hepburn last season.
SEBASTOPOL

Hugo Papst (right) is coming back to Sebastopol. Picture: Hamish Blair
Hugo Papst: Returns to the club after playing for the Horsham Demons last season. Papst played in two grand finals for the Burras and will play a vital role in defence and attack for the team.
Gedd Hommelhoff: Joins the club from Wycheproof Narraport but has plenty of experience in the Bendigo league. He is a premiership winner with Eaglehawk, in 2018, and a two-time best and fairest. Hommelhoff is a ball winner who knows how to use it.
SUNBURY
No signings yet.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/all-the-latest-recruits-in-the-ballarat-league-for-season-2025/news-story/5a9418b58d8435e0c6707122ba82e242

 

[Berwick boy]

MPFNL: All the latest coaching moves ahead of 2025​

There have been coaching changes in the Mornington Peninsula league ahead of 2025. Here’s an up-to-date look at every club’s coaching status.
Simon McEvoy
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3 min read
October 16, 2024 - 3:06PM

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Troy Schwarze will return to coaching, as senior coach at Bonbeach. Picture: AAP/ Chris Eastman

Local Footy​

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Coaching changes and tweaks have been made at Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League clubs in recent months.
Keep up with all the latest moves here ...
DIVISION 1
DROMANA
Ben Holmes is going again at Dromana. He signed a two-year deal when he took over from Matt Price in October, 2023. Holmes guided the Tigers into the grand final this year.
FRANKSTON YCW
Paul Goonan is on board for 2025, the club recently confirmed.
Goonan will coach for a fifth year — sixth if you include the 2020 Covid season — after leading the Stonecats to the 2022 premiership.

Paul Goonan will continue as Frankston YCW coach. Picture: Valeriu Campan
MT ELIZA

Premiership coach Rikki Johnston is already planning more success in 2025, after taking the Redlegs to glory in 2024. Winning flags is in his DNA.
PINES
Paddy Swayn will coach the Pythons for an 11th straight season in 2025. He chalked up his 200th game at the helm in August.
RED HILL
Jamie Mollo was named MPFNL Division 1 coach of the year after steering the Hillmen to a first-ever top-flight finals berth. Yet, he’s still to be reappointed. The club says it’s close to making an announcement.
ROSEBUD
Danny Ades signed a fresh deal at Rosebud late in the season, re-committing to the club for seasons 2025 and ‘26. He got the Buds into the finals in 2024, his second season at the helm.

Danny Ades, head coach of Rosebud. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)
SORRENTO
James Hallahan will be a playing-coach at Sorrento in 2025 after being appointed for two years, replacing great mate Leigh Poholke. Hallahan will go into coaching with his own firm views on how he intends to lead the way, bringing his own determined style to the job.
MORNINGTON
Leigh McQuillen took over as senior coach in June after ongoing concussion symptoms forced Mornington premiership playing-coach Josh Newman to step away from football. McQuillen will continue in the role in ‘25, with Newman still involved.
LANGWARRIN
Josh Beard and Jarred Moore will continue as co-coaches. Beard has coached Langy since 2018, while Moore, the ex-AFL Swan, has been back at his home club since 2022 (when he was an assistant coach).
EDITHVALE-ASPENDALE
Kris Pendlebury made a whirlwind start to his coaching career, taking the Eagles to the Division 2 premiership. And the good news for the Eagles is that he’ll be in charge again in 2025, when Edi-Asp goes into the top division. Pendlebury signed a two-year deal last September. He initially took the Edi-Asp job after being urged to do it by his famous brother, Collingwood champion Scott.

Edithvale-Aspendale coach Kris Pendlebury. Picture: Valeriu Campan
DIVISION 2
BONBEACH
Ex AFL-Saint Troy Schwarze is Bonbeach’s new senior coach for 2025, replacing Adrian Connolly.
Schwarze returns to coaching after several years but few can match his record. He coached Sorrento for 10 years and that included six premierships.
Schwarze was selected after an extensive three-month search.
CHELSEA
David Willett nearly became a premiership coach this year after steering the Seagulls to the grand final, which they lost by one straight kick. He’s the right man to lead them again in ‘25.

Chelsea coach David Willett. Picture: Valeriu Campan
CRIB POINT
After going so close to steering the Magpies to their first finals campaign in 10 years, Duane Annable will be at the helm.
DEVON MEADOWS
The Panthers are going with a co-coaching set up in 2025, with ex-AFL player Dean Kent to be a be playing co-coach and sharing the top role with Ryan Hendy.
“I’ll just bring my experience, different ideas and a different voice and see where that takes us,” Kent said. “We’ll be honest with each other and bounce ideas off each other.”
HASTINGS
Seven-time Frankston YCW premiership player Kevin Lylak will launch his coaching career at the Blues. “It’s exciting,” he said. “I know they (Hastings) are coming from far back but that’s the exciting part of it, it’s a blank canvas. I feel like I can make a few changes that overtime will go a long way.”
KARINGAL
Former St Kilda captain Nathan Burke was unveiled as the man to lead the Bulls in 2025 “and beyond” in August. A former coach of the Western Bulldogs’ AFLW side, Burke knows Karingal well, having served as player development manager this year, working with the Bulls’ raft of young players. He replaces Luke Forsyth, who has joined Langwarrin as an assistant coach.
PEARCEDALE
Peter Bastinac will coach the Dales for a fourth successive year in 2025. He’s taken the club to finals in each season so far and has it poised to challenge for high honours.
SEAFORD
Rohan Bleeker will continue as the Tigers senior men’s head coach through to the 2026 season. He steered the Tigers to seventh spot with a 9-9 record.

Somerville coach Chris Gamble. Picture: Valeriu Campan
SOMERVILLE
The Eagles have been knocking on the premiership door under Chris Gamble and he will again be at the helm in 2025, his third season in charge.
TYABB
Matt Haverfield will coach the Yabbies in season 2025. Sam Fox, who was Haverfield’s co-coach in ‘23-24, has stepped aside. Haverfield has been part of Tyabb’s coaching group since 2018 and his knowledge of the club’s players, opposition players and the game will see the club continue to improve next year.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/mpfnl-all-the-latest-coaching-moves-ahead-of-2025/news-story/7e0c89b5d9c9f5eb9790eb8fbcd0bf31

 

[Berwick boy]

All the latest recruits in the Goulburn league for season 2025​

The off-season is well underway for Goulburn league clubs who have unveiled a host of recruits for 2025. Here are all the moves in our signing tracker.
Shane Jones
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2 min read
October 21, 2024 - 2:44PM

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There’s been plenty of signings already in the Goulburn Valley league for next season.

Country Footy​

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All Goulburn Valley clubs will be chasing one team as the off-season begins for next year.
Echuca has won the past three titles and will be looking for a fourth-straight title in GV.
Can another team rise to beat them or will the Mighty Bombers prevail again?
Check out all the off-season signings below.
BENALLA
No signings yet.
ECHUCA
No signings yet.
EUROA

No signings yet.
KYABRAM

Jack Sheldon has returned to Kyabram for next season. Picture: Kyabram Football Netball Club.
Jack Sheldon: The former premiership player at the Bombers returns after a couple of years at Moama. Capable of playing in the midfield and in defence.
Coby McCarthy: Comes back to the club after playing for Tongala and Mooroopna in recent years. At Tongala he won club and league best and fairests. McCarthy is a midfielder who has also played in the Northern Territory.
Zac Cerrone: Returns to the club after playing for Kyabram in 2022. Cerrone has played for Lancaster in recent years helping the team to win the premiership in the Kyabram league. He kicked 71 goals last year and won the clubs best and fairest.
Billy Mclay: A former junior at Kyabram who is back after playing for Tongala last season. Known for his precise kicking, he played 18 games and was among the best in eight of them for the Blues.
Sam Vick: Comes to the club after playing for Lancaster for the previous few years. He won two premierships at the club and returns to Kyabram after playing reserves in 2017.
Mitch Gugliotti: The midfielder returns to Kyabram after playing for Tongala for the past two seasons. He won the reserves best and fairest medal in the Goulburn Valley competition in 2019.
Tom Holman: The four-time premiership player at the club returns after playing for Moama last year. He will also be an assistant coach next year at the Bombers.
MANSFIELD

Former AFL player Callum Brown has joined Mansfield. Photo by Michael Klein.
Callum Brown: The former AFL player is off to country footy next year, signing with Mansfield in the GV league. Brown has recently played VFL and was best on ground in the representative game between the VFL and SANFL. He’s a hand recruit for 2025.
Mitch Lewis: The former VFL player at Casey joins Mansfield for next year. Lewis in recent years has been playing for Sunbury in the Ballarat league and helped the team to make finals in 2024. Lewis is capable of playing in the midfield and the forward line.
MOOROOPNA
No signings yet.
ROCHESTER
No signings yet.
SEYMOUR

Woodend-Hesket’s Tom Gawthrop will be playing country footy next year. Picture: Andy Brownbill
Tom Gawthrop: The key tall, who can play in the backline or the forward line, has joined the Lions for next year. Last season, he played for Woodend-Hesket in the Riddell league.
SHEPPARTON BEARS
No signings yet.
SHEPPARTON SWANS

Adam Fichera has joined the Shepparton Swans for next year. Picture: Shepparton Swans Football Netball Club.
Adam Fichera: Will return to the Goulburn Valley league after playing at Shepparton East for the past three years. Last season he played 19 games and kicked 23 goals, helping the team to make the grand final. Fichera will play for the Swans after playing for Shepparton United previously.
SHEPPARTON UNITED

Former St Mary's player Kade Chalcraft has signed for Shepparton United. Picture: Mark Wilson
Kade Chalcraft: The midfielder comes back to the club after playing in Geelong for the past few years. Chalcraft played for the Geelong VFL and also for St Mary’s in the Geelong league last year.
Jesse Cucinotta and Trent Freer: The duo are the new coaches of Shepparton United for next year. Jesse Cucinotta last year was the assistant coach, while also playing, and will now be a player coach. Trent Freer comes to the club after being a junior coach at the Goulburn Murray association. He was an assistant coach for the Goulburn Murray’s V-Line Cup campaign this year.
TATURA

Adam Enever has signed for Tatura for next year. Picture: Tatura Football Netball Club.
Adam Enever: The key tall has joined the club from North Wangaratta in the Ovens and King league. He was the best and fairest at the club in 2023 and finished runner up this season.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/country/all-the-latest-recruits-in-the-goulburn-league-for-season-2025/news-story/13ce6bbd29b296af82815a3d104c226d

 

[Berwick boy]

WFNL: All the signings of the 2024-25 off-season​

The WFNL off-season has only just started but some clubs have already well and truly started making moves for 2025. Keep up to date with every signing in our signing tracker.
Brayden May
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@braydenjmay

3 min read
October 21, 2024 - 6:33PM

Jack Burgess has joined Albanvale. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Western​

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The WFNL off-season is well underway.
Clubs are already making big moves ahead of next season with some guns joining the competition.
We’ll keep you updated on all the moves across the competition.
Here’s a look at all of the confirmed signings so far.
CAROLINE SPRINGS
Cooper Bond: Has spent the last two years on East Keilor’s books but didn’t play in 2024. The former Lakers junior is a midfielder.
Ben Caluzzi: The former East Keilor captain arrives at the club with VFL experience.
Frank Campisi: Another returning player to the club who will add dash and craft to the forward line.
Malik Elfakahani: Crosses from East Keilor and will add depth up forward.

Ethan Mantas: A VFL listed player with the Northern Bullants who returns to the club. He was aligned with Parkside in 2024.
Carlo Riccardi: A former junior returning after a stint with East Keilor.

Ben Caluzzi. Picture: Andy Brownbill
NEWPORT
Darcy Cassar: The dynamic midfielder arrives at the club fresh off a reserves premiership with Keilor.
Nayef Hamad: The goalkicking midfielder returns to the club after a year with East Keilor where he made the EDFL Team of the Year.
Bachar Houli: The three-time premiership star arrives at the club as arguably Newport’s greatest ever signing.
Aojak Mayen: Standing at 208cm, the Panthers have signed the athletic and mobile ruckman from East Keilor.
Noah Pokia: A developing ruckman, 20, who crosses from Eastern league outfit Mulgrave.
PARKSIDE
Matthew Bennardo: Opportunistic forward who has spent the last two seasons with the Northern Saints.
Jordan Briggs: Returns to the club after three years away. Possesses great speed and footy IQ.
Chris Benson: The big man returns to footy after a year away. Does well to cover the ground.
Liam Canny: A player with silky skills, can play in the middle or up forward. Joins from Montrose and has TSL experience.
Jordyn Croucher: A small forward chasing a new opportunity.
Jordan Filakis: The former Keilor Park vice-captain joins the club, he is capable of playing as an electric forward who can get up the ground.
Bruno Laguda: The former Essendon VFL player will be a big addition to the midfield.
Brodie Lyons-Jones: The exciting young talent joins from St Albans.
Chris Pereira: Makes the move from Tullamarine and also has experience with Keilor.
Will Pyke: Arrives from tatura in the Goulburn Valley and is capable of playing on the wing or across halfback.
Luke Rowland: The versatile big man is expected to add power to the forward line.
Rhys Smith: The key defender joins from East Keilor. His resume includes being a former league MVP and two-time club best-and-fairest.
Jayson Tomicic: A player of real quality having joined from Lara in the Geelong competition where he was a regular senior player.

Jordan Filakis has joined Parkside. Picture: Hamish Blair
POINT COOK CENTRALS
Tom Rowland: Played six VFL games with Coburg but was also a key player for Old Trinity in the VAFA.
Kyan Upsall: Spent time on Coburg’s VFL list this season but played all year at Old Trinity in the VAFA.
DIVISION 2
ALBANVALE
Kade Bellingham: Joins his brother Ostinn at the club after a stint with Tullamarine.
Jack Burgess: A two-time WFNL premiership player who joins from the Suns.
Zac Papamihail: Capable of playing across the ground. He joins for his first season of footy. Formerly of West Footscray and Keilor.
LAVERTON
Matt Davis: The goalkicker joins from Hepburn in the Central Highlands league. Also has experience with Altona.
Jordan Lynch: The tall and versatile utility joins from Albanvale.
Corey Vandermeer: Joins the club from Point Cook Centrals where he won the reserves best-and-fairest in 2024.
SUNS
Tyson Palupe Gaby: A defender who takes pride in rebounding the footy.
Michael Hart: A wingman and half forward who joins from Parkside.
Dean Henderson: The wingman and half forward has joined from Point Cook Centrals.
Josh Harris: The key defender joins the club from Point Cook Centrals and has previously played at Wyndhamvale.
Declan McCorry: Returns to footy after a few years away.
Matthew Wright: The halfback flanker joins the club from Point Cook Centrals.
WEST FOOTSCRAY
Mitch Grubb: Played in Braybrook’s 2023 premiership and is a versatile player.
Jai Haines: The inside midfielder joins from VAFA club Williamstown CYMS.
WESTERN RAMS
Josh Cassar: The versatile 6’3” player can play in different positions across the ground.
Shane Emery: The young tall joins from Macedon where he was part of a successful under-19s program.
Braiden Gale: The halfback joins from Caroline Springs.
Dillon Gillard: Has previously played with Broadford and Wallan. Looms as a midfield addition.
Connor Korras: Expected to play up forward and in the middle. Has experience with Melton Centrals.
Josh Miller: Returns to footy after recently focusing on basketball.
Will Touhey: Has experience with Sandhurst and is likely to hold up a key defensive post.
WYNDHAMVALE
Cameron Ord: The young halfback joins from Werribee Centrals.
Lewis Stanton: The key forward arrives at the Falcons after a stint with Yarraville Seddon.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/wrfl/wfnl-all-the-signings-of-the-202425-offseason/news-story/7ba34c1c458326a03e7ab6897b362fc2

 

[Berwick boy]

Bachar Houli signs with Newport for 2025 season​

A three-time AFL premiership hero will return to the local competition where he made his name but it’s a move which will see him play against his junior club. Here’s what we know.
Brayden May
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@braydenjmay

2 min read
October 1, 2024 - 11:13AM

Bachar Houli is joining Newport. Pic: Michael Klein

Western​

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The Newport fans kept persisting and now the Panthers have their man.
Bachar Houli has been unveiled as the Western Football Netball League club’s marquee signing ahead of its first season in Division 1.
Houli was once a dominant junior in the competition with Spotswood, who will now become one of his rivals for next season.
The three-time premiership star’s arrival comes just days after Ali Hamad was appointed as the club’s new coach.
“I’ll give credit of the recruitment of Bachar to the supporter base we have at Newport,” Hamad said.
“We’ve got the most passionate and supportive fan base there. Every time they’ve seen him, whether it’s at the mosque or out in public or on a walk or even some of his neighbours, they’ve been talking to him.”
Just how many games and where the 36-year-old plays on the ground is yet to be determined.
Hamad said he could easily slot across halfback like he did at AFL level but there’s also a possibility he plays in the middle.
“It’s going to depend on the game,” he said.

“If we’re losing the ball a lot out of the middle and we do need that experience and composure at halfback and someone to then drive the ball for us, we’ll definitely be playing Bachar there for sure.”
Hamad’s appointment at Newport comes on the back of a season where he was co-coach of East Keilor in the Essendon District league.
“Being my community club, it was a no-brainer when the opportunity came up,” he said.
“Seeing it grow over the last seven years with Ziggy and Marwan building it from where it once was. It’s really come such a long way and I’m looking forward to helping them into the new division.”
The Panthers have re-signed about “85 per cent” of its playing list for next year with several other “A-grade recruits” expected to be announced.
That’s without including an exciting crop of under-18s stepping into the senior program.
“When we get back to pre-season, our first focus is to get fit, get our fundamentals right, try and execute under pressure, and try and educate a game plan and a system eventually,” he said.
“However long that takes, whether it’s a year or two, we’ll give the players, and especially the young players, every opportunity to develop to become Division 1 players.”

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/wrfl/bachar-houli-signs-with-newport-for-2025-season/news-story/55090ffac596605db6bd0e50696d1bb6

 

[tigertim]

Good stuff Bboy.

 

[Berwick boy]

Check out all the Riddell District off-season recruits here​

Check out all the Riddell District off-season recruits here​

RECRUIT TRACKER: League best-and-fairest winners, VFL talents and exciting young guns, Riddell District clubs have made some strong recruiting gains for 2025.
Ben Higgins
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@ben_higgins84

6 min read
October 24, 2024 - 2:00PM
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Check out all the RDFNL off-season recruits.

Riddell​

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The local footy silly season is in full swing and Riddell District clubs have been busy welcoming new talent.
From league best-and-fairest winners and VFL talents to premiership heroes and exciting young guns, the competition will only be stronger in 2025.
With two new clubs – Gisborne Giants and Melton South – joining the fray next season, there’s plenty of fresh faces.
Check out all the confirmed arrivals here.

Victor Micallef in action for East Keilor. Picture: Andy Brownbill
VICTOR MICALLEF (Wallan)
One of the biggest names in the Essendon District for the past decade. Micallef has a distinguished resume that includes a EDFL Division 1 league best-and-fairest in 2017 and runner-up in 2021, club best-and-fairests at Hillside (twice), East Keilor and St Albans and seven Team of the Year guernseys. Brings class, experience and leadership to a Magpies team looking to go one better in 2025.
TIM WALSH (Macedon)
No stranger to the Riddell District, Walsh burst onto the scene with Riddell – winning the 2016 Rising Gun – but, after having a year out of the game, returns to the field with the Cats. Was a part of Riddell’s 2022 premiership, kicking two goals and was a star at Gisborne in the Bendigo league. A big acquisition for the Cats to take some pressure off skipper Jason Cooke.
BLAKE WATSON (Macedon)

Having come through the ranks at Ballarat league club, Sunbury, Watson will be looking to establish himself as a senior player with the Cats. Played three senior games for the Lions this season, including the elimination final, and 10 matches at reserves level. The club is looking for him to add “speed and agility together with great skills”.

Fabian Brancatisano on the burst for Werribee. Picture: Getty Images

Hisham Kerbatieh in action for Sunshine. Picture: Andy Brownbill
FABIAN BRANCATISANO (Melton Centrals)
A huge get for the Blues. The experienced midfielder played VFL at Coburg, Port Melbourne, Werribee and Essendon. Most recently, he’s played the last two seasons at Western Division 2 club Sunshine, helping the club to a drought-breaking premiership this season. A Western and Loddon Valley representative.
HISHAM KERBATIEH (Melton Centrals)
Brings an impressive resume to Arnolds Creek Reserve. The star forward played VFL for Carlton, Williamstown and Coburg and arrives from Western Division 2 club Sunshine. Booted 41 goals in 11 matches this season to help the club win a drought-breaking premiership. A long-time Essendon District representative too.
ANTHONY PIVA (Melton Centrals)
Represented Vic Metro at under-16s level back in 2010 and is a Western Jets graduate. Last played in 2023 with St Albans.
AJDIN ELKASOVIC (Melton Centrals)
Took a season off after playing for St Albans in 2023, making eight senior appearances and kicking 10 goals. A former Western Jets graduate.

HAYDN SMITH (Kyneton)
The Kyneton junior made his senior debut for the Tigers way back in 2010, while also representing the Bendigo Pioneers. He’s since spent the past 14 years in Tasmania, racking up 250 matches for Tasmania State League club Lauderdale, multiple Team of the Year appearances, a reserves league best-and-fairest and a couple of club reserves best-and-fairests.
LOUIS THOMPSON (Kyneton)
The son of a gun is another Tigers junior and Bendigo Pioneers representative. Thompson played seven Coates League matches in 2021 and made his senior debut for Kyneton. Returns to the club after spending 2023 with Eastern power Doncaster, where he played 15 senior matches, before missing the 2024 campaign. The son of Kyneton great and North Melbourne and Hawthorn forward Nathan.

Noah Smallacombe in action for Essendon Doutta Stars. Picture: Andy Brownbill
NOAH SMALLACOMBE (Lancefield)
An Essendon District league best-and-fairest at under-19s and reserve grade level with Strathmore. Has since spent the past three years at Essendon Doutta Stars, playing 40 matches. Smallacombe made 10 senior appearances in EDFL Premier Division 1 this season. Brings significant experience and class to the Tigers, who hope he is “a silky left-footer with amazing skills that has the ability to be a top shelf player in an increasingly hot RDFNL”.
TOM JACKSON (Lancefield)
Came through the ranks at Aberfeldie but made his senior debut at Essendon District Premier Division rival Essendon Douttas Stars in 2021. Has spent the past two years at Division 1 club Tullamarine, playing 16 matches and kicking 23 goals this season, earning a mention in the best seven times. Brings significant experience and class to the Tigers’ line-up.
HAMISH THOMAS (Lancefield)
An under-18s Bendigo league premiership player at Gisborne before stepping away from the game. Now looking to make his mark in senior footy at his hometown club.
ASHLEY-JAMES GRAHAM (Lancefield)
The Geelong native moved north as a teenager to play for NEAFL club Tuggernong. After time out of the game, he returned to the field with Ballarat league club Bacchus Marsh in 2023, playing two senior games and 14 more at reserve grade level, earning a mention in the best 11 times. Now looking to bring his experience to the Tigers’ line-up.
WILL O’CONNELL (Lancefield)
The 20-year-old joins his brother Ned in black and yellow. Played all 21 games for St Bernard’s VAFA Division 1 under-19s team this season, helping the club reach the grand final. Has also played EDFL under-18s at Essendon Doutta Stars and Strathmore. The Tigers hope he can be “a crafty left-footer who loves his time and space on the wing and can also do some damage in the forward line”.

BRAD MANGAN (Gisborne Giants)
A rock the Giants hope to build their foundations on. The former North Melbourne draftee and 2015 Williamstown VFL premiership player has been one of country footy’s best for near a decade. After his time at the Kangaroos he went on to play state league footy at West Adelaide and Williamstown before returning to his junior club, Goulburn Valley power Kyabram. He’s won two flags with the Bombers and represented the GVFL. The Gisborne local will now take on the challenge of captaining the fledgling Giants into their debut senior season.
JOSH LEE (Gisborne Giants)
Fresh out of under-19s, started the 2024 season in the reserves at Sunbury but broke into the senior team late in the year. Played a part in the Lions’ run to Ballarat league finals and its elimination final loss before stepping back to reserves and was one of the team’s best in its grand final defeat. Now looking to bring his experience and class to the Giants.
SAM VAN TAARLING (Gisborne Giants)
Played junior footy at East Sunbury and Sunbury before stepping into senior football with Sunbury Kangaroos. The key position tall made 29 senior appearances for the Kangaroos, having a breakout campaign this season with 15 appearances in EDFL Division 2. Brings much-needed height and endurance to the Giants’ maiden team.
WILLIAM GRAY (Gisborne Giants)
A Macedon junior, who made his senior debut in 2019 and played eight matches in 2023. However, the defender was limited to just five reserve grade appearances this season. Will look to establish himself as a senior player at the Giants and bring his experience from the impressive Macedon development system.
COOPER MOORE (Gisborne Giants)
Returned to footy after a couple of seasons away in 2024, playing seven games in the reserves for Ballarat league club Sunbury. Joins the fledgling Giants looking to make his mark at senior level, bringing pace and forward craft.
SPENCER JONES (Gisborne Giants)
Came through the ranks at neighbouring Gisborne Rookies and Gisborne before testing himself in the Essendon District with Premier Division heavyweight Aberfeldie. Made his senior debut for Abers in 2023 but was limited to just eight reserve grade appearances this season. Nevertheless, the forward brings top-level experience to the club’s senior debut.
MATTHEW WALLACE (Gisborne Giants)
The key defender returns to the Riddell District league having last played in the competition with Sunbury Kangaroos in 2018. Spent the 2024 season with VAFA Division 3 outfit North Brunswick, playing 10 senior matches and being named in the best in seven of them. Will bring much-needed experience and composure to a backline that could see a bit of work in 2025.
BLAKE TIRCHETT (Gisborne Giants)
The Sunbury Kangaroos product represented the Riddell District at under-15 and under-17 level before the club left to join the Essendon District league. Made his senior debut in 2021 and has only missed a handful of games since. The key position player looms as an important addition with his ability to play either end of the ground.
DYLAN CUNNINGHAM (Gisborne Giants)
Has been playing senior football at Sunbury Kangaroos since 2021, making 16 appearances in EDFL Division 2 this season. Was in the best nine times in 25 games the past two years. The Giants are looking for him to bring that experience to the club’s debut season.
JIAYA MITCHELL (Gisborne Giants)
A Riddell District league best-and-fairest winner and premiership player at under-18 level at Rupertswood and won a Ballarat league reserve grade flag with Sunbury Lions. Made his senior debut for the Lions in 2022 but has mainly played reserves. Made just one appearance for Sunbury this season but will look to become a regular senior player for the Giants.
ZAC PLOOG (Gisborne Giants)
Arrives from Sunbury Kangaroos, where he played 10 senior EDFL Division 2 games in 2023 and four more in 2024. Played 13 matches and kicked 25 goals and was named in the Kangaroos’ best in their reserve grade grand final loss this season. The forward brings much-needed senior experience to a club looking to make the step up to senior football for the first time.
BLAKE LAWSON (Gisborne Giants)
Finally cemented himself as a senior player at Sunbury Kangaroos this season, playing 13 EDFL Division 2 matches. The defender is now looking to become a key part of the Giants in their debut season.
JAMES O’CONNOR (Gisborne Giants)
A Riddell District representative at under-18 level when Sunbury Kangaroos were still a part of the league. Returns with the Giants, looking to help the club make a strong transition to senior football. After nine and six senior games in 2022-23, O’Connor established himself in 2024, playing all 16 matches.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/rdfl/check-out-all-the-riddell-district-offseason-recruits-here/news-story/9b84a73cff101a6f08c58d08dfd08582

 

[Berwick boy]

The ex-AFL names who lit up local footy in 2024​

From the bush to the ‘burbs, former AFL players thrilled local football crowds across all corners of the state this year. We’ve named the best – and ranked the top 15. See who heads the list.

10 min read
October 25, 2024 - 12:00PM

Local Footy​

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From the bush to the ‘burbs, a raft of former AFL players thrilled local football crowds across the state this year.
Former North Melbourne champion Ben Cunnington — after 238 AFL games — was one of many who lit up the grassroots level in 2024.
He kicked 76 goals in 18 games to take Warrnambool to the Hampden league finals.
“It was unreal … it definitely brought a lot of joy to me,” Cunnington said of his return to local footy.
He was among our best and finished high in our ranked top 15.
See the other ex-AFL men who stand alongside him.
Ryan Abbott (Grovedale, Geelong)
The ex-Geelong and St Kilda ruckman averaged the second most Premier Data ranking points in the Geelong league, averaging 145, and had the most hit-outs to advantage for the season. Also placed equal 10th in the GFL best and fairest.
Ryan Bastinac (Pearcedale, Mornington Peninsula)

The former North Melbourne and Brisbane midfielder won the Dales’ best and fairest award. His consistent season included 12 mentions in the best from 16 games and 20 goals.
Tim Broomhead (North Albury, Ovens & Murray)
Led North Albury to its best finish in 14 years as coach, making the preliminary final in the Ovens and Murray league. Broomhead also had a good year on the field with the former AFL player winning the club’s best-and-fairest.

Luke Dahlhaus for Anakie.
Luke Dahlhaus (Anakie, Geelong & District)
Brought his own footy for Anakie, averaging 160 Premier Data ranking points, 35 disposals, 20 contested possessions and nine clearances. After winning one game in three years, Dahlhaus helped the Roos to five wins in 2024.
Josh Deluca (Doncaster East, Eastern)
The former Fremantle and Carlton midfielder tied for the Premier Division Eastern club’s best and fairest this year with fellow ex-Docker Taylin Duman, despite missing four matches. Of his games 14 played, he featured in the best on 11 occasions as a standout for the Lions in an otherwise lean year on-field.
Trent Dennis-Lane (Dingley, Southern)
Dennis-Lane kicked 41 goals from 14 games for Dingley this year, excluding a five-goal, best-on-ground performance for Southern in its interleague win over the Riddell District league.
Taylin Duman (Doncaster East, Eastern)
The former Fremantle Docker edged out some formidable names for the centre half-back position in Eastern’s Premier Division Team of the Year. It was a tough season on-field for the Lions, sliding from preliminary final to a five-win, eighth-placed finish with several changes made each week – but Duman was ultra-consistent, managing to feature in all 18 home-and-away matches. And he tied for the top-flight club’s best and fairest.
Trent Dumont (Strathmore, Essendon District)
Among the leading midfielders in the competition throughout the season. Played 21 games and was mentioned in the Mores’ best in 16.
Aaron Edwards (Healesville, Outer East)
The ex-AFL Eagle, Tiger and Kangaroo kicked 68 majors to top the Division 1 competition goal kicking chart — and he slotted three goals to be among the Bloods’ best players in their grand final victory.
Jacob Edwards (Cheltenham, Southern)
Edwards shared Cheltenham’s best and fairest in his first season out of the AFL system. The ruckman’s ability to be a fourth midfielder when the ball hit the ground was crucial in the Rosellas’ second successive premiership.
Brett Eddy (Pearcedale, Mornington Peninsula)
The former Port Adelaide forward kicked 72 goals in 19 games to top the MPFNL Division 2 chart as he helped the Dales into the finals. He was also named at full-forward in the team of the year.
Cam Ellis-Yolmen (Wodonga Raiders, Ovens & Murray)
A standout for the Raiders in a tough season for the Ovens and Murray side. He won the team’s best and fairest and was among the best in 11 of 17 games.
Todd Elton (Murrumbeena, Southern)
Elton, who last played for Richmond in 2017, fired 58 goals in a premiership-winning Murrumbeena outfit this year. He was held goalless only twice and kicked five or more on five occasions.
Ryan Garthwaite (Montrose, Eastern)
A runaway winner of the Eastern league Division 1 goalkicking this season, with the ex-AFL Tiger slamming on 56 majors from just 13 games played. Injury cost the spearhead a few matches – he didn’t play after Round 13 owing to a foot complaint – but he still finished 13 goals ahead for the gong. And he was named at full-forward in the Division 1 Team of the Year.

Ryan Garthwaite had a big season in front of goal for Montrose despite missing a few matches. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)
Marty Gleeson (Uni Blues, VAFA)
Another outstanding season for the Woodrow medallist. Controlled the game across half back for the Blues and was one of the league’s leading intercept players.
Levi Greenwood (Healesville, Outer East)
The former North Melbourne and Collingwood midfielder clicked into another gear in finals to fire the Bloods to their first premiership in eight years. He was awarded the medal for best-on-ground in the Division 1 grand final.
Brayden Ham (St Mary’s, Geelong)
Ham made the decision to return to local footy from Geelong VFL and he was a class above for St Mary’s, finishing in the Geelong league team of the year. He played 45 games for Essendon.
Josh Jenkins (Sea Lake Nandaly, North Central FL)
Finished second in goalkicking despite missing a few games throughout the season. He kicked 50 goals in 11 games to help Sea Lake Nandaly to win back-to-back premierships.
Darcy Lang (Colac), Geelong
His numbers don’t jump off the page, but everything the ex-Carlton and Geelong touched turned to gold in the Geelong league. Booted 33 goals for his hometown club Colac and placed fifth in the league best and fairest.
Jack Leslie (Sale, Gippsland FL)
Had another strong year in the Gippsland league. Was named in the team of the year, as the best ruckman, in the Gippsland league. Continues to be one of the premier players in country footy.
Sam Lloyd (Deniliquin Rams, Murray FL)
Impressed as he returned to his junior club. The midfielder not only won the best and fairest in his first season but he also led the club goalkicking with 33 goals.
Jack Lonie (Cheltenham, Southern)
The former St Kilda livewire lit up the Southern league this year. He kicked 28 goals as the undefeated side’s leading midfielder. Lonie shared the Rosellas’ best and fairest and has re-signed for 2025.
Teia Miles (Portarlington, Bellarine)
The former Hawk took the mickey in his first year in the Bellarine, averaging more Premier Data ranking points than any other player with 153 per game to go with 36 disposals, a lazy 30 kicks and seven clearances. Miles, who played 19 games with Hawthorn, helped Portarlington snap its 68-game losing streak.
Aaron Mullett (Wandin, Outer East)
The former North Melbourne and Carlton forward booted 59 goals in 17 games to help Wandin play off in another grand final.
Kurt Mutimer (Narre Warren, Outer East)
Another premiership for the former West Coast Eagles midfielder, who also won Narre’s best and fairest award after performing at a high level week in, week out.
Lochie O’Brien (Wangaratta Rovers, Ovens & Murray)
Played a pivotal role in Rovers winning the premiership. The former Carlton midfielder played 20 games and was among the best players in five of them.
Tim O’Brien (Doncaster East, Eastern)
A maiden season in the Eastern league’s Premier Division netted a leading 37 goals for Doncaster East from 14 matches immediately after his decade-long AFL career with Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs finished last year. His campaign was highlighted by bags of five against Vermont, Noble Park and Norwood on the way to finishing inside the top 10 for goals kicked in one of the state’s strongest local football competitions.

Tim O'Brien takes a screamer for Hawthorn. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)
Fletcher Roberts (Mulgrave, Eastern)
The AFL premiership Bulldog kicked 30 goals from 15 matches in Eastern’s Division 2 this season on the way to selection on the half-forward flank in the Team of the Year. His biggest bag – eight – came against East Burwood in Round 14, while also kicking four apiece against grand finalists Boronia and Croydon.
Ahmed Saad (Pascoe Vale, Essendon District)
In his first season with the Panthers, the ex-St Kilda forward kicked 53 goals in 16 games as Pacco reached the grand final. Remarkably Saad’s form came despite tearing his ACL in pre-season, only the first four games of the season.

Ahmed Saad continued to find the goals at his new club this year. Picture: Wayne Ludbey
Shane Savage (Pines, Mornington Peninsula)
Another outstanding season by the ex-Hawk and Saint, with 10 mentions in the best players in his 18 games while using his pace and skill.
Jordan Schroder (Daylesford, Central Highlands FL)
Helped the Central Highlands team to win the premiership this year and was unlucky not to be best on ground in the grand final. A big-bodied midfielder who is one of the best in the league.
Billie Smedts (Thomson, Geelong & District)
The 47-game Cat and Blue helped lead Thomson from an elimination final to a premiership. He averaged 27 disposals, 15 contested possessions, eight clearances and 125 Premier Data ranking points across the season.
Tim Smith (South Belgrave, Eastern)
Another consistent season for the ex-Demon, putting on 46 majors from 19 games to finish second in Eastern’s Division 1 goalkicking on the way to selection at centre half-forward in the Team of the Year.

South Belgrave’s Tim Smith enjoyed another consistent season. Picture: Leesa Clarkson
Jackson Trengove (Cobram, Murray FL)
Played all but one game for Cobram this year and was their leading forward in the Murray league. He kicked 53 goals.
Kayne Turner (Balwyn, Eastern)
Heads turned when the Eastern league powerhouse signed the former AFL Kangaroo in November last year mere weeks after his career in the big-time came to a close. And unsurprisingly, he would end up being one of Balwyn’s most influential on the ground in its nailbiting Premier Division grand final win, while also putting together a 20-game season as one of the club’s prominent playmakers through the midfield and in attack.

Balwyn’s Kayne Turner in action. Picture: Leesa Clarkson
Brandon White (Beaconsfield, Eastern)
The ex-St Kilda man can be played just about anywhere – but he earned selection at centre half-back in Eastern’s Division 1 Team of the Year off the back of 15 matches played in his second season back at the club.
Tyrone Vickery (Edithvale-Aspendale, Mornington Peninsula)
The ex-Tiger and Hawk played a key role in the Eagles’ Division 2 premiership. Providing a strong target, he kicked 35 goals in 14 matches, including a bag of four in the grand final.

TOP 15​

15. Brent Macaffer (Old Eltham Collegians, Northern)
Returned to the Northern league this season and won the Division 3 league best-and-fairest and Coaches’ MVP double – the second time he’s achieved the feat. The Collingwood premiership player made 17 appearances for the Turtles and was in the best an incredible 14 times.
14. Lin Jong (Mulgrave, Eastern)
Another big season for the ex-AFL Bulldog, running second for the Eastern league’s Division 2 best and fairest, polling 24 votes and winning a Team of the Year nod in the centre – all despite missing a handful of matches. In fact, in the 15 games he played this season, he was named in the best in 14 – the only exception owing to an early exit from the ground due to injury. He won Mulgrave’s best and fairest after hauling in an average of some 29 disposals, 17 contested possessions and nine clearances a match.

Lin Jong ran second for Eastern’s Division 2 medal. Picture: Davis Harrigan
13. Luke Dahlhaus (Anakie, Geelong & District)
Brought his own footy for Anakie, averaging 160 Premier Data ranking points, 35 disposals, 20 contested possessions and nine clearances. After winning one game in three years, Dahlhaus helped the Roos to five wins in 2024.

Jack Lonie in action this season. Picture: Andrew Batsch
12. Corey Ellis (Keilor, Essendon District)
As classy as they come for Mick McGuane’s side who made it two premierships in a row. Ellis has proven to be one of local footy’s best goalkicking midfielders.
11. Jarryd Brander (Wentworth, Sunraysia)
Was the leading goalkicker in the Sunraysia league, falling eight goals short 100. Brander helped Wentworth reach the grand final and kicked 24 goals during the finals series.
10. Matthew Scharenberg (Olinda Ferny Creek, Outer East)
The former Collingwood defender had another unbelievably consistent season, named in the Bloods’ best players on 18 occasions in 20 games, including a sizzling display in a finals win in Premier Division. Playing a “forward connector’’ role, he also swung into attack at times to kick vital goals.
9. Brett Bewley (Darley, Ballarat FL)
The former Docker continues to dominate the Ballarat league and had another successful year. The two-time Henderson medallist finished second in the league medal. The midfield gun played 17 games and was among the best in 11, kicking 18 goals.
8. Ryan Garthwaite (Montrose, Eastern)
A runaway winner of the Eastern league Division 1 goalkicking this season, with the ex-AFL Tiger slamming on 56 majors from just 13 games. Injury cost the spearhead a few matches – he didn’t play after Round 13 owing to a foot complaint – but he still finished 13 goals ahead for the gong. And he was named at full-forward in the Division 1 Team of the Year.

Ryan Garthwaite had a big season in front of goal for Montrose despite missing a few matches. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)
7. Jake Aarts (Dromana, Mornington Peninsula)
The ex-Richmond fan favourite had another excellent season, making the Division 1 team of the year, finishing high up in the league medal and being named Dromana’s best player in the grand final.
6. Jed Anderson (Hoppers Crossing, Western)
Enjoyed a stunning season in the middle for the Warriors as they ended a 20-year premiership drought. Was named in the best in 15 of his 16 games including the best on ground medal on grand final day.
5. Fergus Greene (Sandhurst, Bendigo)
Greene moved back to his home club and helped Sandhurst to win the premiership. He kicked 83 goals to lead the competition goalkicking.
4. Sam Murray (Wangaratta Rovers, Ovens & Murray)
The Wangaratta Rovers coach not only guided his team to a premiership but had a stellar year himself. He played 20 games and kicked 14 goals while also having 37 disposals in the grand final win over Yarrawonga.
3. Josh Begley (Boronia, Eastern)
Two seasons back at local level and the ex-AFL Bomber and former Frankston VFL gun has as added as many premiership medals to his collection. The midfielder and forward capped off a competition-leading 54-goal year with a best afield honour in Boronia’s Division 2 grand final win this season, kicking four majors – including two miracle snaps – to help the Hawks to a second consecutive crown and long-awaited promotion.

EFNL 2024: Josh Begley celebrates a goal in the Division 2 decider. Picture: Grant Bertram
2. Ben Cunnington (Warrnambool, Hampden FL)
While he played in the midfield for most of his AFL career, this year for Warrnambool he played as a forward and led the goalkicking in the Hampden league. Cunnington kicked 76 goals in 18 games and was among the best in 11 of them.

Ex-Roo Ben Cunnington fired off plenty of goals in the country this year. Photo by Michael Klein.
1. Tom Williamson (Ararat, Wimmera FL)
The ex-Carlton man should be a back-to-back winner of the best and fairest in the Wimmera league. Last year he missed out after being suspended but this year he made amends, winning the vote count. Playing as both a midfielder and a forward target, Williamson kicked 66 goals in 19 games, helping the team to win the premiership.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/the-exafl-names-who-lit-up-local-footy-in-2024/news-story/b819ea0a8785d2b5c49be41ea799a404

 

[TT33]

Thanks BB really appreciate the input. Very interesting reading.
The influx of ex AFL players into lower leagues raises the standard of footy at that level & improves the spectacle & enjoyment of local footy.

 

[Berwick boy]

EFNL 2024: All the latest Eastern league key signings ahead of 2025​

Ex-AFL talent, state league names, homecoming heroes and more – there’s been no shortage of key player signings across all five Eastern league divisions ...
Daniel Cencic
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@DanCencic

8 min read
October 28, 2024 - 6:26AM

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Former Richmond Tiger Jake Aarts is among a swag of ex-AFL names linking with Eastern clubs this off-season. Pic: Michael Klein

Eastern​

Don't miss out on the headlines from Eastern. Followed categories will be added to My News.
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Eastern league clubs have been busily recruiting for 2025 – and there’s been no shortage of key player signings landing across all five tiers.
See all the latest inclusions in our division-by-division guide ...
PREMIER DIVISION
BERWICK
Almost 500 goals has landed at Berwick, with club favourite Jordy Andrews returning after a three-year stint with Dromana in the MPFNL.
Andrews won a Division 1 flag in his time away while also earning a Team of the Year gong.
DONCASTER EAST
Ex-AFL forward Josh Schache has signed at the Lions for next season after his 76-game career in the big-time came to a close.
The former No. 2 draft pick played at three AFL clubs, beginning at Brisbane before stops at the Western Bulldogs and Melbourne.

He links with former Bulldogs teammate Tim O’Brien at Zerbes Reserve.
Also joining the club is Box Hill VFL premiership-winning midfielder Tom Maloney, who returns to the league after a stop at country club Seymour. He spent 2018-2023 on Norwood’s books, winning two best and fairests.
MITCHAM
The newly-promoted Tigers have added two-time Bentleigh best and fairest Liam Hewish, who brings more than 150 games’ experience from the Southern league and an ability to play both ends of the ground.
He’s joined by fellow dual Bentleigh best and fairest Michael Rogers, an intercepting, running half-back. The former Sandringham Dragon was named captain of Bentleigh at just 20 years of age in 2019.
Meanwhile, brothers Ezi and Emi Aleixo have crossed from Division 2 club Croydon.
Ezi, a high-pressure forward, featured in two senior finals for Croydon this season, while Emi, a pacy midfielder, returns to the league’s top-flight after a stint at Vermont where he played 16 senior games in 2022. He was also on Frankston’s VFL books in 2023 before a knee injury put paid to his time in the state league.
Medium-sized forward Jack Kritopoulos (Blackburn, Premier Division) has also signed.

SOUTH CROYDON
Three-time AFL premiership star Liam Shiels will don the red, white and blue next season following his retirement from the big-time in August.
The former Hawk and Kangaroo, who played 288 games across a 15-year career, had no shortage of offers from local clubs far and wide – but he reunites with close friends in the Eastern league, returning to where it all began.
Meanwhile, VFL-listed tall Jett Latchford has signed on from Division 2 club Ringwood.
He’s the son of South Croydon great, Scott Latchford.
Playing most of the year in Eastern’s Division 2, Jett was in Ringwood’s best more often than not – and cracked two state league matches with the Hawks.
Young midfielder Baylin Spencer, a former vice-captain at Eastern Ranges, has joined the Bulldogs from Woori Yallock where he’s been playing senior football since the age of 16.

VERMONT
Liam Buxton’s return to Premier Division outfit Vermont is the first major signing under incoming coach Matt Adolph, following stops at Montmorency and Sorrento.
Widely regarded as one of local footy’s top ruckmen, Buxton finished runner-up for the Northern league’s Division 1 best and fairest in 2023 and made the Team of the Year.
He played 18 games for Sorrento in the MPFNL’s top-flight this year, also featured in Vermont’s 2018 premiership and represented the Eastern league on multiple occasions.
DIVISION 1
BAYSWATER
Former junior Jamie Battersby has returned to the Waters from The Basin, with the tough, versatile talent bringing a wealth of experience.
This season he split his time between the seniors and reserves at the Division 2 club.
BEACONSFIELD
Former AFL Tiger Jake Aarts has landed back where it all began, reuniting with junior club Beaconsfield for its Eastern league Division 1 campaign next season.
The midfielder and small forward arrives fresh off two years with MPFNL power Dromana, winning a league medal and Division 1 flag in 2023 before featuring in another grand final this year.
BORONIA
Fresh off their Division 2 flag, the Hawks have snared recently-crowned Ferntree Gully best and fairest Jordan Church – with the young defender following in the footsteps of father Russell, who played at Boronia and won a club champion award.
This year Jordan averaged some 21 disposals, 9.4 contested possessions, eight intercept possessions and five marks a game from half-back.
Church is joined by Ferntree Gully teammate Brayden Wright, with the ruckman returning to the Hawks after two seasons away. He won two reserves flags in the brown and gold and has played 90 senior matches for the club.
Fellow Eagle Tom Gasparroni has too become a Hawk, as he eyes a return from a long layoff with injury. The young gun has made his name in a high half-forward role exhibiting a great leap, mark and exceptional pace.
Meanwhile, 2023 Mitcham premiership defender Daniel Houeix has also signed.
DONCASTER
South Australian state league tall Hugo Munn has landed at Schramms Reserve, crossing from Central Districts where he played more than 50 games.
A nice size at 197cm, he’s touted as a contested marking forward who can ruck.
MONTROSE
The Dees have snared one of the league’s most exciting young prospects, with former Eastern Ranges and VFL-listed talent Hayden Smith crossing from Division 2 club The Basin.
He exhibits great versatility on the wing, on-ball and up forward and put up a whopping 11 mentions in the Bears’ best from 15 games in 2024.
They’ve also added experienced Drouin defender Ryan Quirk, and Bailey Bateman from Lilydale, who can play midfield or defence.
MOOROOLBARK
The Mustangs have shored up their stocks with a swag of higher-division recruits.
Former Eastern Ranges prospect Jak Ryan headlines the arrivals after a stint with Outer East top club Woori Yallock where he played 23 senior matches – including the 2022 grand final. Touted as a dangerous small forward, he’s quick, evasive, and smart with the footy in hand. He played 16 Ranges matches this year and won a Vic Metro guernsey.
Blackburn tall talent Ethan Wright arrives following three premierships across the under-19s and reserves – one as best on ground – alongside stints at the Oakleigh Chargers and Frankston’s VFL development list. He’s played 12 senior matches and looks set to add to that at his new club.
He’s joined by former Oakleigh Charger and Blackburn under-19 talent Connor Riley, whose versatility is one of many strings to his bow. He’s yet to debut in the senior ranks – but opportunity awaits for the high-pressure livewire at the Division 1 club.
Josh Neal crosses from Woori Yallock where the forward kicked more than 100 goals across the past three seasons – including 29 in 17 matches this year.
“(Josh) is an exciting forward, takes a great mark and good on the ground – a really hard match-up and he hits the scoreboard pretty heavily,” Mooroolbark coach Ben Wheat said.
“At 27 years old he’s ideal for us – we felt we needed to bring a couple of those in to complement our young guys.”
He’s joined by brother and ex-Mooroolbark junior Jacob, touted as a running midfielder.
NORTH RINGWOOD
Straight from Collingwood where he spent three-and-a-half years, exciting young tall Aiden Begg has returned to Quambee Reserve.
Ruckman and forward Taylor Davidson has reunited with former Dromana coach and incoming Saints mentor Matt Price. Davidson was a key member of Dromana’s 2023 premiership side in MPFNL’s Division 1 before helping the club to another grand final in 2024.
Connor O’Brien is also on board following a top-division reserves premiership with East Ringwood in 2024.

NORWOOD
Cooper Winter headlines the Norsemen’s haul, bringing a resume which includes Team of the Year honours and a best and fairest after a stint at Nunawading. Joining him from the Division 4 club are key defenders Matt Hutchinson and James Lever.
Midfielder Kieran West returns to the club where he won an under-19 best and fairest in 2018, while goalkicking midfielder and former Northern Territory under-18 representative Antwan Huddleston has signed from Trinity Grammar.

DIVISION 2
HEATHMONT
The Jets have secured one of the signings of the Eastern league off-season, luring Premier Division captain James Appleby from Doncaster East.
He featured in the Lions’ 2018 and ’19 Division 1 premierships amid its rise to the league’s top-flight for the first time in their history and has also taken in a swag of Team of the Year honours.
Heathmont has also welcomed back a line of names, including dashing half-back and past best and fairest winner Wade Van Leeuwen, former captain Tom Rourke (Noosa Tigers) and key forward Jed Hansen (Blackburn).
And some more: swingman Cody Bowman (Crib Point), key defender Jack Troake (The Basin) and former Oakleigh Chargers and VFL Port Melbourne-listed midfielder Jono Aujard (Newbridge, Loddon Valley).
MULGRAVE
Hulking ruckman and defender Lloyd Butcher is a big signing at the Lions, standing at some 200cm, crossing from Castlemaine in the Bendigo league.

RINGWOOD
Riley Hillman arrives from Outer East club Berwick Springs where he made two teams of the year as a centre half-back – and he also has a knack for kicking goals. Meanwhile, Cade Bell is set to bolster the midfield after arriving from Premier club East Ringwood.
SURREY PARK
The Panthers have hit the ground running with a package of recruits as they prepare to take on Division 2 following back-to-back premierships.
Blackburn trio Sam Harte, Sam Rogers and Hayden Telford are set to bolster the Surrey midfield and attack after crossing from the top division.
Harte, formerly of the Oakleigh Chargers and Northern Blues, has made a name as a wingman in recent seasons and an ever-reliable user of the ball.
Telford topped the Premier Division reserves goalkicking this season, with the athletic forward kicking 47 majors, and Rogers is set to provide the Panthers more grunt as a versatile, big-bodied inside midfielder.
And former VFL Port Melbourne and Oakleigh Chargers ruckman Jacob Woodfull has returned after a year off.
TEMPLESTOWE
Eastern league legend Matt Mariani is back at Porter St.
Mariani, who won a third senior league best and fairest in 2019 to earn legend status, crosses from Division 2 rival East Burwood. Two of his league gongs came at the Dockers (2014, ’16) where he last played in 2017.
The nuggety inside midfielder has played more than 250 senior matches across Templestowe, Whitehorse and East Burwood.
He joins a Templestowe outfit which finished its season with an elimination final loss.
The Dockers have also injected some pace with the signing of wingman Connor Walsh, who has crossed from Elmore in the Heathcote District league following a three-year stop at Banyule in Northern’s Division 1. Meanwhile, Stefan Papahronis and Giorgio Papahronis have signed from Premier Division club Doncaster East.
WANTIRNA SOUTH
The Devils have landed one of Division 3’s leading midfielders, with Ethan Kiker crossing from Ferntree Gully – and he’s set to follow a strong family legacy at the club.
Dad, Brent, won a premiership with the Devils in 1996 and was named in the Devils’ team of the half-century (1952-2000) and grandfather Colin carved out an indelible legacy as president.
In 2023 Ethan finished runner-up for the Ferntree Gully best and fairest and was named in the Division 3 Team of the Year.

DIVISION 3 & DIVISION 4
CHIRNSIDE PARK
Inside grunt was identified as a key area for improvement following a straight-sets exit from the finals – and the Panthers have addressed just that, with the signing of decorated Mooroolbark midfielder James McManus.
McManus brings more than 200 games’ experience from the Mustangs where he won a premiership and a best and fairest.
KILSYTH
Jackson Drake is sure to lift the Cougars’ attack, signing on after a recent stint with Premier club Berwick and The Basin prior where he topped the goalkicking in 2021.
The former Eastern Ranges talent is the son of former Kilsyth player Jarrett.
He’s joined by Liam Walter from The Basin, a centre half-forward who can swing back.
And the Cougars have also been injected with the experience of newly-appointed playing-coach, Damian Murray.
SCORESBY
The Magpies have secured Premier Division midfielder Matt Traynor from Rowville ahead of their return to Division 3.
Traynor won Rowville’s best and fairest in 2018 and brings more than 100 senior games’ experience, among a stop at the Box Hill Hawks. He played most of this season in Rowville’s reserves – but managed six senior matches of his 18.
WARRANDYTE
A Lancefield pair headlines the Bloods’ signing haul.
Key defender Luke Fellows is set to straighten the spine, while midfielder and half-forward Alex Simpson joins the club after topping the goalkicking across the past two seasons. The Assumption College product also had stops at Seymour and Prahran.
Tall defender Caleb Rudd has also put pen to paper, arriving from Southern outfit Chadstone alongside crafty small forward Ben Ogilvie, while versatile talent Jasper Young has signed from Cheltenham.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/efl/efnl-2024-all-the-latest-eastern-league-key-signings-ahead-of-2025/news-story/6279f05306d9462a18f91c7e9100c8f6

 

[Berwick boy]

MPFNL: Tyabb signs 203cm ex-AFL Tiger Andrew Browne​

A 203cm former Richmond ruckman and Essendon District league medallist has signed at Tyabb in the Mornington Peninsula league. Here’s how the Yabbies got their man.
Simon McEvoy
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2 min read
October 28, 2024 - 10:27AM

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Andrew Browne of Keilor (left) contests ruck against Jack Thorogood of Glenroy. Picture: Hamish Blair

Local Footy​

Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Footy. Followed categories will be added to My News.
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Tyabb has netted a big one.
The Yabbies have signed former Richmond ruckman Andrew Browne as a playing assistant coach.
The 34-year-old — who stands 203cm — is one of the most decorated players in Essendon District Football League history through his feats at Mick McGuane’s Keilor.
A league medallist and grand final best-on-ground, Browne has been the leading big man in Premier Division of the EDFL.
“He’s hugely respected as a person and footballer,” McGuane said of Browne in 2020.
“He only has eyes for the footy and he plays the game in the right manner.”

Andrew Browne of Keilor flies for a mark. Picture: Mark Dadswell
Tyabb coach Matt Haverfield said Browne’s arrival was huge for the Yabbies, who finished eighth (6-12) in Division 2 of the MPFNL this year.
“We know what we needed and we got it,” Haverfield said.
“He will make everyone around him improve.”

Browne is good mates with Tyabb’s full forward Matt Clark; the pair played together at Keilor.
“Players are your best recruiters,” Haverfield said of the Browne-Clark connection.
“Having Browney will release players such as Will Hose and James Hammond, they won’t have to shoulder the work load of the ruck and it gives our mids the best opportunity to get their hands on it first.
“Hopefully a couple more recruits to follow.”

Andrew Browne handballs for Richmond while being tackled by Sydney’s Adam Goodes.
Browne played 12 games for Richmond between 2009-12.
He had two stints at Keilor, winning two club best and fairests and making the EDFL team of the year on four occasions.
Browne’s footy journey includes a stint as playing coach at his junior club Mansfield in the Goulburn Valley league.
In recent seasons, Browne has been midfield coach for Richmond in the AFLW.
“His knowledge and experience will add massively to our midfield group, with him having experience as a senior coach and midfield coach for Richmond AFLW,’’ Haverfield said.

Matthew Kreuzer of Carlton and Andrew Browne of Richmond in action. (AAP Image/Martin Philbey)
Andrew Browne’s footy career:
- Richmond 12 AFL games from 2009-12
- EDFL League Best and Fairest
- EDFL Runner Up League Best and Fairest
- EDFL 4 x Team of the Year
- 2 x Keilor Football Club Best and Fairest
- EDFL Best on Ground in grand final
- Mansfield Best and Fairest in GVL
- Premiership player for Tatyoon and Best on Ground in grand final
- Runner up League Best and Fairest for Donald
Browne’s coaching experience includes:
- senior coach for Mansfield in the GVL
- midfield coach for Richmond in the AFLW.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/localfooty/mpfnl-tyabb-signs-203cm-exafl-tiger-andrew-browne/news-story/2ad32e2067fe9e49f69833f28ce41c97

 

[Berwick boy]

Thanks BB really appreciate the input. Very interesting reading.
The influx of ex AFL players into lower leagues raises the standard of footy at that level & improves the spectacle & enjoyment of local footy.

All good TT...even if a few get something out of it that's fine.

I probably follow local football now more than AFL to be honest.

I just stay on here for all the drunk talk

 

[Scoop]

This is great, enjoying it immensely.