Mitch Grigg joins Lobethal Tigers, Hills Football League for season 2022

He’s only just hung up the boots at Norwood but this former Crow has landed in the Hills, choosing to step away from the mental and physical strains of the SANFL.

Norwood great Mitch Grigg has signed with the Lobethal Tigers for season 2022 just weeks after hanging up his boots for the Redlegs.

The star midfielder will play alongside best mate Aidan Riley, and ex-Norwood teammates Brady Dawe, Alex Georgiou and Matt Fuller when the Hills Football League returns.

Grigg, 28, said he made his decision just before Norwood’s finals campaign ended.

Two-time Magarey Medallist and 2018 Jack Oatey Medal winner Mitch Grigg will join Lobethal for the 2022 Hills Football League season. Picture: Supplied, Lobethal FC

“I started to think about retiring from SANFL footy towards the end of the year,” Grigg said.

“I’m super appreciative of my time at Norwood and all they’ve given me and my family for so many years. They’ve done so much for me and I’m especially grateful for how they’ve helped my father with his MND battle.

“I just felt I didn’t want to go through the mental and physical strains of the SANFL for another season. I then met with a few clubs and as soon as Lobethal approached me I knew I was going there, it’s a great opportunity.”

Grigg found the opportunity to play alongside Riley as well as old Norwood teammates too hard to turn down when it came to deciding his next club.

With he and wife Nicole just recently welcoming baby boy Maxwell, the two-time Magarey Medallist decided Lobethal, which is close to home, was the perfect option.

“I’ve never played with Aidan even though I lived with him for multiple years while at the Crows – I’ve only played against him while he was at Sturt,” Grigg said.

Mitch Grigg out runs Robbie Young in Norwood’s losing 2018 SANFL Grand Final. He was best on ground and won the Jack Oatey Medal. Picture Sarah Reed

“It’s a great opportunity to finally play with him and also a few ex-Norwood guys as well.

“It ties in with work and starting a family as well – I can go from work to training and back home – it’s just an easier lifestyle.”

Although the Tigers have come close to division one glory in the Hills Football League in recent years, the club remains starved for success.

The signing of the versatile on-baller will bolster the club’s chances of winning that elusive flag after just missing out on this year’s grand final.

Mitch Grigg and his dad Chris, who has MND, with his Magarey Medals at Norwood Oval. Grigg has experienced major success throughout his career but is still chasing more at Lobethal. Picture: Tom Huntley

“I was never going to go anywhere without the potential to have success,” Grigg said.

“The Tigers have been pretty close in recent years so hopefully with a few additions we can get there next year, that’s the ultimate goal and it’s why I still play footy – to win flags.

“I’m really excited to get to the club, meet everyone and then get to work for next year.”