AFL-listed utility Cam Taheny returns to Norwood after two years at Geelong

A former Geelong player has returned to South Australia and the SANFL club where it all began ahead of the 2022 season.

Utility Cam Taheny will return to the Norwood Football Club for the 2022 SANFL season after spending two years at Geelong.

The 20-year-old, who played both junior and senior footy for the Redlegs, was delisted by the Cats after a Covid-impacted 2021 season saw him play five VFL games while battling injury.

Taheny said he was looking forward to pulling on the red and blue again at the Parade.

Former Geelong player Cam Taheny is returning to the Parade in 2022. Picture: Simon Cross

“I’m pumped to be back. It’s going to be great to play with some old teammates and new ones too,” Taheny said.

“A lot of the boys I played juniors with are now playing seniors and there are a few familiar faces like Matt Nunn, Matt Panos and Declan Hamilton.

“It’s an environment I’m familiar with and one I think I can transition back into well to play my best footy.”

Taheny left the Redlegs in 2019 as a medium forward but returns as a utility who can play at both ends of the park.

He said the staff and players at Geelong helped him take his game to another level.

Cameron Taheny enjoyed his time at Geelong and is looking forward to putting his learnings to use in the SANFL. Picture: Peter Ristevski

“I’m really grateful for the two years I had at Geelong. It was a weird couple years with Covid and hubs but living and training with superstars like Dangerfield, Selwood and Blicavs definitely helped my game,” Taheny said.

“I played a lot more defence at Geelong and my versatility is now a lot better. I have the players and staff there to thank for my development as a player and person.”

Norwood has lost a handful of players through the off-season so far, and Taheny’s versatility and experience will undoubtedly be a boost for the club.

Taheny playing for South Australia. He will return home to play for the Redlegs. Picture: Michael Dodge/AFL Photos via Getty Images

He said he was excited to playing whichever role the Redlegs needed.

“Whatever role Norwood sees me playing I’ll be playing it to the best of my ability,” Taheny said.

“I’m also just hoping to be someone who brings a great attitude and continues that positive environment at the club.”

Taheny also said he was anxious to help Norwood taste premiership success again.

The club has not won a premiership since its three in a row from 2012 to 2014, and in 2018 was defeated by North Adelaide in its most recent Grand Final.