Tristan Tweedie signed by Western Bulldogs as Category B rookie after injury-plagued year

WESTERN Bulldogs have signed former Hawthorn next generation academy youngster Tristan Tweedie, who slotted six goals in Round 1 before breaking down with injury.

Tristan Tweedie in action for Eastern Ranges.

THE Western Bulldogs have signed an injury-plagued forward who slotted six goals in Round 1 before breaking down with injury.

On Tuesday, the Herald Sun revealed that Tristan Tweedie had joined as a Category B rookie through the club’s next generation talent academy.

Tweedie was in Hawthorn’s academy this season and it provided medical assistance but decided not to list the 190cm indigenous playmaker.

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Tweedie, 18, has played just four TAC Cup games in the past two seasons after battling stress fractures.

But Eastern Ranges talent manager Len Villani said Tweedie boasted an “abundance" of talent.

“He’s a pretty special talent. I can see him playing as a classic third forward, pushing up to the wing and taking marks,” Villani said.

Eastern Ranges forward Tristan Tweedie in action against Calder Cannons this year.

“He’s not quite as dynamic as him, but he plays a little bit like (Adelaide’s) Charlie Cameron.

“He’s elusive, has clean hands and is a text book set-shot for goal.”

Tweedie was set to return to Eastern as a 19-year-old if he was not offered a rookie lifeline.

The Healesville boy unpacked at the No.45 Whitten Oval locker and completed a boxing sessions.

“I like to run and jump at the ball and take it at the highest point,” he said.

“I’m good overhead and look forward to using that out on the field and hopefully get a few on the board.”

Originally published as Tristan Tweedie signed by Western Bulldogs as Category B rookie after injury-plagued year